Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1950 .38/44 Outdoorsman .38 Spl 6.5″ Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1220
LSB#: 210419MB75
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950, Pre-Model 20
Serial Number: S 146136
Year of Manufacture: 1955-1956
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Double / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON” and the right is marked “38 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG”. The right of the frame is marked with the four line marcas registradas and the sideplate has an S&W monogram logo. The rear face of the cylinder, underside of the ejector star (no letter prefix), rear face of the crane (no letter prefix), butt of the grip frame and the inside of the ejector shroud are each marked with the serial number. The yoke, yoke cut, sides of the grip frame, and ejector rod shroud are marked with inspection marks. The interior of the right grip panel is stamped with the serial number. The bottom face of the right grip has been hand marked with a number that does not match the serial number and the left has been marked “X”.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade pinned on a ramp pinned to the serrated rib of the barrel. The rear sight is square notch micrometer sight adjustable for windage and elevation and is screwed to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut magna stocks with smooth diamonds around the grip screws and S&W medallions. There are a few infrequent light marks with a couple deeper compression marks along the backs. The bottom faces have makrings hand carved into the wood. The checkering is strong. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is a bit of finish loss on the edges at the muzzle. There are some spots of discoloration from previous oxidation on the front sight riser. Some of the edges have some minor finish loss, most noticeable on the trigger guard and top strap. There is a little spot of finish loss on the front of the trigger guard from previous oxidation. There are a couple scuffs and small marks through the finish on the cylinder. The cylinder also has a turn line through the finish. The hammer and trigger show light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces hardly any movement in full lockup of all 6 chambers. The double action trigger pull is smooth, single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a gold box, mop, brush, cleaning rod, and knurled screwdriver. The box has the correct configuration and has some finish loss, edge wear, scuffs, and ceases. A few of the metal tabs are starting to separate. The box rates in about Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: While the K and even smaller J-frames would become those most commonly associated with .38 Special Smith & Wessons, but when the cartridge was first being developed, the more stout N-frame was chosen to chamber the new round. This became the .38/44, offered in the Heavy Duty configuration with fixed sights and the Outdoorsman version, such as this, with target sights. This example was produced around 1955-56 and is in great shape for a gun of its age. It has a 6.5″ ribbed barrel and is equipped with some good looking magna stocks. The bore is great and the mechanics are exceptional. This would make a great shooter but with its included accessories will be a great addition to a Smith & Wesson collection. Please see our pictures and good luck!