New to the model 10 world

[skidder]

I found an interesting 4" Model 10-7 at my LGS. The cosmetic condition is average, but the lockup is rock solid with no wiggle.

The S/N says AAN46XX and stamped on the backstrap "RHKP 2547" I believe it stands for "Royal Hong Kong Police". It has the half grips (shorter style) and they appear to be original. It also has the half round front sight and a lanyard ring.

They are asking $350 and will not go any lower. I'm thinking about grabbing it, but I thought I'd check with you guys first. Any information would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[Blacksmoke]

I cannot speak to the provenance. A lanyard ring was not common except for service weapons. The Model 10 is an excellent choice The price is reasonable.

 

[MikeJackmin]

Is it 38 special or 38 S&W? It should say on the barrel.

 

[palmetto99]

Model 10-7 is a late 70's change. The serial number indicates early 1980's production. Can't say anything about the RHKP stamp. But, I want to say the lanyard ring was an option that was found on those revolvers. $350 for a good condition ex-LEO model 10 is about the going rate. Some a little lower priced, some a little higher. Someone else might want to verify what I've stated here. BTW, heavy barrel or pencil barrel?

 

[skidder]

Thanks guys. Yes, 38 special and pencil barrel.

Here is a closed auction of a similar gun with the same markings on the grip.

http://www.gunsamerica.com/975000299/S-W-Model-10-7-Blue-38-Spl-RHKP-3564.htm

 

[Driftwood Johnson]

Howdy

I want to know where all you guys are finding Model 10s in good condition for $350. We sure as heck do not see them in this neck of the woods very often. In these parts, you are doing well if you find a Model 10 in good condition for under $500. I am always on the lookout for them.

According to the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson by Supica and Nahas:

"Hong Cong Police: This version stamped 'RHKP' and number on the backstrap, fitted with lanyard ring, 4" standard barrel, blue finish; about 1983 many found in ANIB condition while others are well worn. Some 13,000 were traded in toward the purchase of new guns. Many then purchased by AcuSport in Ohio for resale on the used gun market. May also be marked 'C&E' with number and lanyard ring."

So what you have there is a relatively unusual variation of the Model 10. Collectors will pay a premium for unusual guns like that. You mention the 'cosmetic condition is average'. I have no idea what that means.

But I can tell you that if I came across that gun in reasonably good condition for $350 I would run, not walk, with it to the checkout counter.

 

[skidder]

Thanks Driftwood for all the information! The condition is about the same as the one in the closed auction in my last post.

I say cosmetic condition "average" because I don't know what I'm talking about. I guess bluing about 65% with several scuffs and small dings, but the action is like new. All 6 chambers lockup rock solid with trigger pulled and hammer down. Very little endshake. My guess it was packed but not shot very much. I'm not concerned about appearance as much as mechanical condition.

I think I'm gonna get it. I like the balance and feel in the hand, and the cosmetic condition makes it a little easier to enjoy. I won't beat myself up if I happen to scuff it while camping or packing.

Thanks again everyone for all the good information!!

 

[jdavis123]

How is $319.00? Bud's has a lot of police trade ins at reasonable prices.
Go Here: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/654_774/products_id/411545790/Used+S%26W+Police+Model+10+38sp+Square+Butt

 

[bannockburn]

I remember seeing these at my LGS back in the early '90s. Most were in fairly decent shape and were chambered in .38 Special.

 

[cluttonfred]

Considering the beat-up state of those Bud's guns going for $319 and the unusual history of Hong Kong, I would say that $350 is a fair price for the one the OP is considering.

 

[jdavis123]

cluttonfred, considering that Bud's description says 70% to 80% condition, wouldn't you agree that is "average" or better condition. The OP says that the Model 10 that he is considering is "average condition" also. BTW, the guys on the S&W Forum give these revolvers high praise.

 

[steveracer]

I bought one of the 3" barreled round-butt RKHP model 10s about 10 years ago and liked it. I sold it on here. It was a very good revolver. I only parted in it because my collection has become "with box only".

 

[The Bushmaster]

RHKP=Royal Hong Kong Police.

Bought 2 of them in the 1980s for $150.00.

Nice to see they have retained their value +.

 

[il.bill]

A S&W Model 10 you can hold in your own hand and thoroughly check out yourself before buying is easily worth $50 or more over the cost of a Bud's Gun Shop used revolver any day of the week.

Bud's literally says "you are on your own, there is nothing we can do" if the forcing cone on your 10-8 splits open the first time you take your revolver out shooting factory 158 grain LRN. I asked for $50 off the cost of a replacement revolver as consideration, but was told the above quote. I must have missed an existing hairline crack when I quickly looked the S&W over at my transferring dealer, and took possession, so it is my fault. Never again for me as far as ANY used firearm from Bud's.

 

[Old Dog]

A S&W Model 10 you can hold in your own hand and thoroughly check out yourself before buying is easily worth $50 or more over the cost of a Bud's Gun Shop used revolver any day of the week.

Yep. Concur heartily.

I'd pay 350 bills for a RHKP-marked shooter in the mechanical condition as described. The days of those types of police trade-ins going for $99 or $129 is loooonnnng gone.

OP, post pics when you get the chance!

 

[skidder]

Now I'm really in trouble. I went to another guns store just down the street from that one, and they had a standard model 10 in much better condition (cosmetically that is, about the same mechanically) with the heavy barrel for $389. This one is real pretty with a deep dark blue and no scuffs. I offered $350, but the owner wasn't there so I have to check back. I'll let you guys know as soon as I make up my mind. If he takes my offer, or comes down a little, I might go with the heavy barrel.

Pencil barrel or heavy barrel?? Tough decision!

 

[PJSprog]

You can never go wrong with a model 10 (or 64 if, like me, you prefer stainless). I like the heavy barrels, myself. So, that one gets my vote.

Even if you can find one for a little less at Bud's, the shipping and transfer fees will make it a wash ... and as already noted, you haven't handled it yourself until you've already bought it.