smith and wesson. 38 special 8.5" barrel

[Andyshowfan]

A friend has a S&W revolver NIB and is asking me to help her identify what year and value it has. I have gun digests book of guns and prices 2011 edition, however the closest I've come is a model 14 but doesnt show an 8.5" barrel option. The serial on the butt of the revolver is 75K20XX model 14-4. Anyone be of assistance? I'm not looking for a value from anyone, just more info so I can find it on my own.

[nightrunner]

<a href='http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_14'>http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_14</a><br />
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I dont trust Wikipedia as a quotable source but it says they were available with 8 3/8" barrels.

If you are looking for a value, might try the smith and wesson forums. Edited December 26, 2012 by nightrunner

[gregintenn]

It is  target revolver, and they were available with an 8 3/8" barrel. Here's a thread in another forum with several pictures of them.

                                            http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1961-1980/134946-k38-masterpiece-8-3-8-how-do-you-like-barrel-length.html

 

According to my book "History of Smith and Wesson" by Roy Jinks, serial #75kxxxx was manufactured in 1979. Hope this helps.

 

You won't be able to retire using the proceeds of the sale, but it is a fairly desireable revolver, and would make a great shooter. Factory boxes, papers, and cleaning kits add generously to the value of Smith revolvers. My wild guess would be $600-$800.

Edited December 26, 2012 by gregintenn

[VERO1]

Is there a model number stamped on the crane that holds the cylinder?  Most fairly modern Smiths are stamped.  Should say 14-2 0r something along those lines.  I presume it is .38 cal?

[dlm37015]

i have a model 14 with an 83/8 inch barrel havent shot it in 20 years but it shoots very well

[Andyshowfan]

Thank you fellas! Big big help. We did find it in the price guide and she is pleased. It was her late fathers and appears to have never been shot still in the box with all the paperwork. A really nice specimen :)

[gregintenn]

I would strongly suggest hanging on to it. Assuming it stays in that condition, it should appreciate in value at a much higher rate than savings accounts, cds, etc.