Price Check: Colt New Service 38 special

[Chevelle SS]

Been looking at a New Service in 38 special has a 6" barrel maybe 80% overall. It might be refinished, I'm not sure. Asking $800. I think that's a bit high but I'd figure I'd ask the experts.

Gunbroker seems all over the place with some for cheaper and some for more.

 

[reddog81]

That's probably about the average price for one in average to good condition. $800 might be OK if it's 80% and not refinished and in good mechanical condition. I would want to inspect in person before buying at that

The New Service is a huge handgun for .38 Special. They are bigger than the S&W N frames.

 

[ancientnoob]

I have been looking for a project gun in .45 colt.

 

[Waveski]

Gunbroker seems all over the place

Did you go to Advanced Search , then Completed Items? If one just looks at current listings on Gunbroker the prices/reserves/starting bids are all over the place and more confusing than informing.

 

[Driftwood Johnson]

The New Service is a huge handgun for .38 Special. They are bigger than the S&W N frames.

Yup, the Colt New Service was a really big revolver. Notice how much bigger this 45 Colt New Service is than an N frame S&W Model 1917. This one is the biggest revolver I own.

Can't really understand why somebody would want one chambered for 38 Special. With the smaller bore and chambers, it is going to be really heavy.

If you want a 38, you might be better off looking for a Official Police, which is still bigger than a K frame S&W.

 

[Waveski]

...you might be better off looking for a Official Police...

I agree , the Official Police is a wonderful shooter , and relatively affordable.

 

[Dave T]

The New Service chambered for the 38 Special was Colt's answer to the S&W Heavy Duty. Both were intended for the 38-44 cartridge (158g @ 1125 fps) the inspiration for and ancestor of the 357 Magnum.

Dave

 

[cowboy77845]

I believe that is high for an 80% gun. I sold a like new one with box for 800 a few years ago. Do not think prices have appreciated that much. I notice that high prices are being asked but no bids. I currently have a 99% Late Model New Service out for sale. Blue Book says 2800+. Will be interesting to see what happens. I hope BB is low but who knows. I told Kasey I would take 3200 if she had a buyer. If she does not it will probably go on Gunbroker next week. I hated to let it go but there are no pockets in a shroud and I have not seen an armored car behind a hearse.