Buying an old snubbie

[workin_ike]

A guy I know has a .38 snub nose, smith and wesson in black that he purchased off of a cop in the early 70's. he doesnt remember what he paid or what its worth. Im interested in it. what do you guys think its worth? I'll be 3rd owner, and its a 1970 or older but in perfect shape.

 

[Thirties]

Without knowing more that what you said . . . I'd say $200 to $250 retail value.

It is probably a 2" Chief's Special (model 36, I believe), a 5-shot cylinder with small wood stocks (a bit hard to shoot due to the poor grip, but there are options).

The 36 is a clsssic. worth buying if not too expensive.

 

[Pointer]

+1

about $200

Unless it's a collector's item... and it probably isn't.

Look at some new models and see what it's worth to you...

Some brand new brands are around $300 to 400...

Taurus, Charter 2000, Ruger SP101...

A new Ruger might be better than your "old" S&W...
Duck!!! Now watch the feather's fly...

 

[XavierBreath]

Without knowing the specific model, let alone condition, it's hard to say the value of a gun. I agree, most J frames will go for $175-250.

 

[Tacoma]

ondition is alos VERY important. If it has allot of holser wear, it may still be a nice shooter but could be worth as little as $125. If it was mint and or a hard to find modle, it could be worth $300+. Get specifics for better details. Finish condition? Is it all steel? Open the crane and read the model #. # of rounds it will hold. 38 or 38/357 caliber? type of grips? papers/box included?etc.

 

[workin_ike]

model #. # of rounds it will hold. 38 or 38/357 caliber? type of grips? papers/box included?etc.
11-17-2005 07:36 PM

Its a .38, 5 shot papers-yes, box-dont know (probally no), grips-wood like "Thirties" quoted. I'll get the model number, maybe on thurs, when i work with him again.
How do I tell what year it is? Its part of the serial number, right?