Dan Wesson Monson 744-VH Pistol Pack 8″ & 6″ .44 Mag Revolver, MFD 1987
SOLD FOR: $1,725
LSB#: 191204HE01
Make: Dan Wesson Arms
Model: 744-VH
Serial Number: SB013994
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1987 (https://www.danwessonforum.com/wp-content/files/DanWessonSerialNumbers.pdf)
Caliber: .44 Magnum
Action Type: Single or Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The right side of each barrel shroud is marked “DAN WESSON ARMS / .44 MAGNUM CTG.”. The right side of the frame is marked “DAN WESSON ARMS / MONSON, MASS. U.S.A. / SB013994”.
Barrel Length: Two 8″ barrels and two 6″ barrels are included, one of each ported, one of each not. Both barrel shrouds have vent-ribs and full lugs. The 8″ shroud and ported barrel are currently installed.
Sights / Optics: Each of the two barrel shrouds has a replaceable ramp front sight with a red insert. Two additional front sight blades are included, one with white insert and one with yellow insert. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in its base pinned to the rear of the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece smooth wood with beautiful grain and “DW” medallions at the top on each side. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip is in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: All bores are bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in any of the bores. The non-ported 8″ barrel has some stubborn fouling.
Overall Condition: This handgun set retains about 96% of its metal finish. The barrel shrouds each have a few scattered minor scratches, the more notable on the 6″ shroud. The frame has a couple of light marks on the bottom-front of the trigger guard but otherwise shows light handling marks. The cylinder has a thin turn-line and a few minor marks. The non-ported 6″ barrel has a patch of light nicks on the outside, concealed when installed in the shroud. The screw heads are undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall, this set is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double action pull is smooth and the single action is light and crisp. The cylinder has barely perceptible rotational play on all six chambers, but no front-to-rear play. 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: This pistol comes with a brown hard case with yellow padded interior, 0.006″ cylinder-gap feeler guage, barrels and sights as described, a Dan Wesson patch and a Dan Wesson belt buckle. The case has a few light scuffs on the exterior and minor wear from the contents on the plush interior, in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: This is a Dan Wesson Model 744-VH Pistol Pack, which was a revolutionary concept from Dan Wesson. Not since the original open-top percussion revolvers from Colt was it so easy for the user to change the barrel on a revolver. This package contains barrels and shrouds allowing the user to configure the revolver with a 6″ or 8″ barrel, ported or not ported. You’ll also have your choice of sight inserts. Additional barrel lengths and shrouds can be purchased after-market to expand the versatility of this revolver. Though not as popular as some other manufacturers, Dan Wesson earned a reputation, which continues to this day, of fine quality craftsmanship and innovative design. If you were to only own one .44 Mag revolver, there could be no better choice than this! Please see our photos and good luck!