Smith & Wesson .38/44 Outdoorsman Pre-War 38 Special 6 1/2″ DA Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,213.99
LSB#: LSB250601SP078
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38/44 Outdoorsman (Pre-War)
Serial Number: 56174
Year of Manufacture: 1931-1941, C&R
Caliber: .38 Smith & Wesson 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 side of the barrel is marked “38 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG.” The top of the barrel is marked with the patent dates. The sideplate is marked with the large S&W trademark logo. The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.” The underside of the barrel, the rear face of the cylinder, and the butt are marked with the serial number “56174”. The yoke cut is marked “11522”, with assembly numbers matching on the yoke.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2″, Pinned, with Integral Ejector Shroud
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a Patridge blade pinned to a boss integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch with a rounded leaf contoured to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
Two sets of grips are included. The installed set is a pair of contemporary checkered walnut service stocks that are not original to the gun. The left panel has a large chip missing from the heel of service stocks . The checkering shows light handling wear. Also included is one additional set of checkered Goncalo Alves target stocks. The extra set shows moderate handling wear but has no major chips or cracks. Overall, the installed set rates Fair and the extra set rates very Good to Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition:
This revolver retains about 90% of its original finish. The balance of the finish shows light holster wear at the muzzle, thinning at some edges, and scattered small handling marks. There is a heavy turn line on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with light play on all chambers. The double-action pull is smooth and the single-action pull is crisp. The timing is correct. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories:
This revolver comes with one extra set of checkered Goncalo Alves target stocks as described above.
Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson .38/44 Outdoorsman was introduced in 1931 as the target-sighted counterpart to the Heavy Duty revolver. Built on the robust N-frame, it was designed to handle higher-pressure .38 Special loads, making it a favored choice among law enforcement and outdoorsmen who needed a durable revolver for field carry and accurate shooting. With its 6 1/2″ barrel, adjustable sights, and substantial frame, the Outdoorsman bridged the gap between service revolvers and dedicated target guns.
This example, serial number 56174, falls well within the known pre-war production range and displays the fine pre-war craftsmanship that collectors prize—precise fit, a quality blued finish, and smooth mechanics. The gun retains about 90% of its original finish and is mechanically solid, with a bright bore. While the installed grips are later replacements with a noticeable chip, the revolver comes with an additional set of target stocks for those who prefer a different fit or look.
Pre-war Smith & Wesson N-frames are increasingly sought after, and the .38/44 Outdoorsman holds a special place as one of the company’s most versatile revolvers from that era. Whether destined for a collection, occasional target shooting, or simply as a tangible piece of American firearm history, this Outdoorsman remains a strong and attractive example of S&W’s golden-age production. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid.
-K.F.
