Before and After S&W 38 DA Model 3

General Firearms Handguns - Revolvers
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Snagged this one today for a good price.

Didn’t know what it was when I bought it, but turned out to be far older than I could have imagined.

Born in 1886, I serviced it completely and it came out very nice I think.

38 S&W Double Action Model 3

3.25" barrel, excellent bright bore. All original as far as I can tell.

I find it extremely satisfying to bring something back to life that was neglected and is 138 years old.

I got another one that I will start working on tomorrow. Screws are fighting me and I want to let it soak in some Kroil for a while to give me a fighting chance.

Before:

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After:

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Very nice. I enjoy learning the history on projects like this one.

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The after is much better than I’d have guessed seeing the before. I’m also amazed at the condition of the grips. Kudos!

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Outstanding! I was also amazed at the grips!! They are probably worth more than the gun itself,LOL Very nice.

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5

Dang!!! It looks great!!!

Mind sharing your technique?

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Break down into individual parts, to the extent I could with this one. I got the hammer, mainspring and didn’t mess with the hand etc…didn’t take it too far as there aren’t many manuals available to show you everything coming out and going back together. Plus, there are a LOT OF PINS.

I basically use the Mark Novak method. He gets excellent results and so have I on everything I’ve used it on.

Step 1: Ultrasonic cleaner for 20 minutes
Step 2: Boil for 45 minutes
Step 3: Card the entire gun with a carding wheel and 0000 steel wool
Step4: Soak in kerosine
Step 5: Blow out kerosine with compressed air
Step 6: Oil and assemble

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The proof that it works is there, lol!

Thanks for the info. I’m gonna save it.

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