Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1950 .38/44 Outdoorsman .44 Spl 6.5″ Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,625
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950, Pre Model 23
Serial Number: S 79239
Year of Manufacture: 1950-1955
Caliber: .44 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 “44 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 butt, 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 “S 79239”. The yoke, yoke cut and ejector rod shroud are marked with inspection marks. The interior of the right grip panel is not stamped.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2?
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a red ramp 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 some draglines and light compressions. The most noticeable marks are on the bottoms and left panel behind the medallion. The grips show light handling wear. 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. 9/10 on the Bore rating.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered marks into the finish, most noticeable on the butt and bottom of the barrel at the muzzle. There is some finish loss on the sides of the barrel at the muzzle. There are some spots of finish loss and discoloration from previous oxidation on the cylinder and also on the bottom of the frame at the front edge. There is a turn line through the finish on the cylinder. 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 very light play 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: None.
Our Assessment: When the 44 special was placed on the Smith and Wesson plate, 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 before 1957 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 target stocks. The bore is great and the mechanics are sound. This would make a good addition to a Smith collection and would be a great shooter to this day. Please see our pictures and good luck and enjoy the auction.-K.F.