Rare 38 model 12 s-w

[Ramair2]

I'm trying to find someone who has knowledge on Smith and Wesson model 12 revolvers I have a 1960 38 special it came in leather box with box of ammo it has 6 inch barrel never fired I was told it's rare like to know how many were made

 

[Mike C2]

The model 12 air weight M&P is a unique revolver. The Standard Catalog of S&W doesn't’ specify the number made, but it does so NOT to shoot the ones that have an alloy cylinder. The 6” barrel was added in 1959 and deleted in 1960, so it is a rare bird. As usual, pictures help immensely as well as serial numbers. The book says the model 12 was numbered with the 10, 11, 45, and the Aircrewman.

 

[Ramair2]

Serial number is c 448400

 

[Bullet Bob]

Unusual find, very nice. I assume you already know the box is not original. That serial number dates to 1960.

 

[Ramair2]

The box is original as per the sisters brother

 

[Ramair2]

Trying to find how many were made with 6 inch barrel I was told a handful

 

[J-Bar]

I think your best bet is to request a factory letter for complete information. You might get lucky by posting on the Smith & Wesson Forum. Many collectors hang out there.

 

[Mark_Mark]

love the green!

 

[CajunBass]

Now that is cool. I had a Model 12-2 many years ago, but it was a rather mundane 2" barrel model. Probably the best carry revolver I ever owned. I knew they made them with a 4" barrel, I believe I've actually seen one, but passed on it (so many guns...so little time/money).

 

[halfmoonclip]

I was mystified by the notion of an ultralight handgun for the pilot of a several tons plane, 'till somebody pointed out what happens when aircrew ejects....
Be careful of that velvet case, original or not. It can trap moisture, which does evil things to blued guns.
Nice catch, great provenance. Don't plan on buying a Porsche with the proceeds of any sale, though.
Moon

 

[orionengnr]

"I was mystified by the notion of an ultralight handgun for the pilot of a several tons plane"
Also remember the effects of G-forces.
I don't know what 9gs feels like (and at my age I don't suppose I will, or should ), but I have experienced 5gs.

 

[NIGHTLORD40K]

Wow. Very cool!
I have a 6" M10 and its a pussycat to shoot.

 

[Gordon]

I believe the Model 12 was first offered in 1959 and only in catalog thru 1960 with a 6" barrel option. It is indeed a rare bird and a pretty one.

 

[Ramair2]

I was told that only 1 s+w model 12 38 special is in catalog with papers with 6 inch barrel

 

[armoredman]

Get that letter from Smith - if it is truly one of a kind, maybe they might try to buy it back.

 

[Gork10]

Very nice. I'v owned a couple of 2 and 4 inch model 12's over the years, and seen a handful of 3 inch barreled one's but never a 6 inch one. There's a good overview article in the October/November issue of G&A handguns magazine on the model 12. According to the article there were a few 5 inch barrel model 12's as well.

 

[Riomouse911]

Man, that is a very nice piece of history there.

If it really is a one of a kind marvel, lock that beauty up and get extra insurance to cover it. A well heeled S&W collector will probably pay into to the stratosphere to be the only guy in the world able to own it.

Stay safe.

 

[Ramair2]

Recieved letters from swhf the revolver is 1 of 3