CHP Smith & Wesson S&W Model 68 102892 .38 Spl 6″ Revolver MFD 1977
SOLD FOR: $1155
LSB#: 211113JC02
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 68, The “.38 Special California Highway Patrol”, No. 102892
Serial Number: 12K1159
Year of Manufacture: 1977
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action/Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “38 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG.”. The sideplate is marked with the S&W logo. The left side of the frame is marked “CHP”, the right is marked with the four-line marcas registradas address. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “V”. The crane cut is marked “12K1159 / MOD. 68”. The yoke and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 6”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with a red insert, set on an elevated base integral to the serrated rib. The rear sight is an S&W square notch sight that is micrometer click adjustable for windage & elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood target stocks with S&W medallions and a football cut. The left panel has been reprofiled behind the football cut for easier use with the cylinder release and quicker reloads. There are a few dings on the bottom edges that have colored with age. There are some scattered light marks, some of the most noticeable are on the bottom faces. There is some finish loss along the front of both panels. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as modified.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
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. The trigger has been polished. There are some scattered scuffs, draglines, and swirl marks, some have caused smooth spots. There are some nicks and little dings, the most noticeable are on the trigger guard and back of the frame. There are light handling marks. There is a turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp to lightly worn with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger guard has been polished. The cylinder lockup has light side-to-side play with the trigger is depressed on all chambers. 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 two-piece blue box with a non-matching label that has been written over.
Our Assessment: The .38 Special California Highway Patrol (CHP) Model 68 is a traditional double-action revolver built on the Square Butt K Target Frame and is rated for +P ammunition. These were manufactured for the CHP and later for the Los Angeles Police Department. This revolver is marked “CHP” on the left side of the frame. When the CHP sold them out of service, they stamped “OHB” over the “CHP” markings, but this one has its original markings intact. The revolver is in Fine condition with about 96% of its finish, a bright bore with sharp rifling, and a good lockup on the cylinder. This would make a great shooter, but with the original CHP markings may also get the dedicated Smith & Wesson collectors interested. Please see our photos and good luck!