I was in your exact position. My first semi auto rifle was (and I still have it) a gp-1975 ak47. I've shot thousands of rounds through it without a hitch. It is a solid rifle except the canted rear gas block. I could not get into the AR platform at the time either. Years later I bought a SIG...
Hard to tell if it is original equipment without seeing the rifle first. All WWII era optics have the hammer and sickle, and year of manufacture. Most show significant wear...something that would make a new optic stand out like a shiny new sore thumb.
That's a great looking Smith slick, thanks for sharing. I really didn't know much about these when I purchased it, but I was sold at .357 N frame. The more I learn, the better it gets!
Peter, thanks for the pictures! Don't apologize for an informative post, the more I can learn the better. I think it is worth the money on this particular gun to get it lettered. Well worth the $50 just to satisfy my curiosity.
Tightgroup: I believe this gun is early 1955. The serial is...
Thanks Bannockburn, it was my 30th birthday so why not have something to remember it!
It truly is amazing how smooth and awesome the older smith revolvers are. Even if the trigger isn't factory, the thing feels great. I really like the wider pad. Hopefully a range report will be coming soon!
I just had my 30th birthday on May 23rd so I completely understand where you are. I ended up with a 1955 S&W Highway Patrolman in .357. Has no connection to my age, but sure felt nice in my hand. I suggest just go find something you can't leave the LGS without.
You obviously have never dealt with real vs. repro pu scopes. The real deal (while not a great optic) is far beyond better than the reproductions. I spend $300 for original soviet scope, base, and mount. Add a $79 ex-sniper and you have a sub $400 91/30 sniper. Its not numbers matching, but it...
I didn't buy it because it was a good deal. I even said in my first post I probably over paid a little. It was purchased to be a shooter, and something I can enjoy for years to come....not a shelf queen.
I can't confirm or deny the trigger and hammer being original. I'm not an expert by any...
I was also quite impressed with the options! I have yet to shoot it yet, but I already know it will be heavenly. I already have a 629 N frame in .44 mag that I adore. This is the 5 screw model, not sure if that affects value but it is definitely early.
I stopped at the LGS looking for powder, and walked out with a 1955 N frame Highway Patrolman in .357! It was my birthday so I couldn't walk away empty handed. Paid a little more than I wanted too, but it really doesn't matter....this thing is sweeeeet!
Sam1911 brings up a very important point. I am a millwright at the largest aluminum rolling mill in the world, and trust me about the importance of maintenance down time. Running equipment into the ground is a terrible business practice. Can you imagine the cost of repairing/replacing neglected...
I can't comment on the 716, but my sig m400 in 5.56 is a fantastic rifle. The quality really impresses me, and I would not hesitate to buy one in 7.62.
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