S&W 38 Special Question

[TripleDigitRide]

I don't know much about wheel guns, so I need some info if possible.

My girlfriends father just purchased a S&W 38 Special CTG. The Serial number is 7D529? He wanted me to look for some grips at the show today, but I have no idea what kind of frame that is.

Can anyone give me some info? Exact model, Frame type and age?

Thanks in advance.

Edited June 21, 2008 by TripleDigitRide

[cknight8]

that looks like the typical K frame. you need a set of grips for a K frame Square Butt. if it is stainless steel it will be a Model 64 and if it is nickel it will be a Model 10. if you kick the cylinder open, in the crane area should be the serial # again and either a 64-# or 10-#...the -# tells you what revision it is. hope this helps...

[tn hp]

Although it appears to be a "K" frame, to make sure open the cylinder and while looking at the inside of the frame, just ahead of the cylinder and on the lower left hand edge of the frame, you will see a model number. It will probably look like this " 64-2 ". The first number is the model number and the second number is the series number. Se.ries numbers denote upgrades in the production that were implemented by S&W

The model number will then verify the type and size frame. From the pictures, this revolver appears to be a stainless steel, heavy barrel Model 64. If so, it is a great handgun and will be a pleasure to shoot. The model 64 is a "K" frame. However, when looking for after market grips, it is always better to have the revolver/pistol that you want to place new grips on with you.

[TripleDigitRide]

Thanks for all help. He's wanting a set of original grips, so I'll keep a look out.

[TripleDigitRide]

He thinks it's a 64-3, but is going to call me back to let me know for sure.

Thanks again.

**EDIT- yep, 64-3. Thanks for all your help.

Edited June 21, 2008 by TripleDigitRide

[musicman]

Nice piece!! You should be able to find a good set of original-like grips for that at the show, just know that all S&W factory grips have been getting more and more expensive lately.

Have your gf's pop check this place out: http://ahrendsgripsusa.com/revolver.htm

THOSE are grips!! =)

[DaveTN]

Any grips marked “S&W K-frame Square Butt†will fit.

64-3 was 1977-1988. That serial number would be 1980.

[TripleDigitRide]

Thanks guys. I hope we got the right ones. We found 3 sets of K-Frame Square Butt's between both shows today. The best looking set were found at the 2nd show. At the Fairgrounds.

Potential problem is, they are not the same as the set in the picture. The set in the above picture only cover the side of the grip (metal part). The set picture leave the front and backstrap of the grip visable. The set we purchased at the show will end up covering the front strap, and leaving the backstrap visable. The bottom part of the butt will also be covered with the new set. If they fit, of course.

The grips from the show were clearly used, but still in much better shape than his current set. I suggest he try some aftermarket grips, but he just had to have the original S&W medalion on the grips.

I guess we'll see if they work when he gets a chance to put them on.

Edited June 21, 2008 by TripleDigitRide

[DaveTN]

The grips shown in that picture are “Service grips†(probably what it came with). The grips you are describing are “Target†or “Combat†grips.

If it is a shooter he should have whatever grips feel and shoot the best for him.

If he is like many of us S&W owners he will end up with one set that shoots the best, one set that looks the best, and one set that are correct for originality.

Be extremely careful messing with these revolvers. They are works of art and can become habit forming.

[Guest Grout]

You bought Target grips.The grips in the picture are what is known as service or magna grips.Sounds confusing unless you are familier with S&Ws.

[Guest Grout]

I thought "Combat" grips had finger grooves.

[DaveTN]

I thought "Combat" grips had finger grooves.

They do.

[TripleDigitRide]

Yep! thanks again, guys. They fit perfectly.

[tn hp]

DaveTn and Grout are correct. The service grips are perfered by many for daily carry and the traget grips for, of course, shooting. However, K frame target grips are extremely comfortable when shoot +P .38 loads or .357 loads.

Trust me, after you and your father in law shoot the Mod. 64, your going to want one! These are excellent car, boat, bedroom drawer or hunting companions. The original "point & click" self protection.

[TripleDigitRide]

Yep, he's loving it. It's in very good condition for it's age. I was surprised how rough the grips were, while the guns finish was quite nice. He gave $300 for the 64-3, and another $30 for the new but used grips. He's happy.

[Guest BG38357]

K Frames are great all around guns.

[Guest grimel]

If he is like many of us S&W owners he will end up with one set that shoots the best, one set that looks the best, and one set that are correct for originality.

More likely he'll end up with one aftermarket set that is on his main shooter and the others on other shooters and one knockout aftermarket set on his nicest looker.

As for habit forming, well, I can usually justify needing about 4-5 N frames and 2-3 K frames at any time.