S&w 12-2 4"

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only1asterisk

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My wife fell in love with one yesterday. 98%+ Almost looks unfired. Just the start of a turn line. Weren't really looking for something for her, but what the hell!

As much as I am concerned about buying and old aluminium frame, my wife demands a light gun. Anything I should look for on this old airweight?
Prices seem to be all over the map on these. $400 seems high.

What say you?
 
I have a M12-2 with a 2" barrel and it's a nice little gun. I would keep to standard pressure loads and it should be fine.

Is it a RB or SB model? And, does it have the proper grips? The first few models were just slightly thinner than a standard k-frame and thus required grips fit especially to it. You should be able to check this out on the inside of the grip, they should be marked.

$400 is a bit high for a 4" .38 Spl but for these models it might be about right. I'm not sure I'd buy it for a regular shooter.

However, you can try the C R Sam method and bring cash, see if they'll come down a bit. If you can post the serial number with the last three digits replaced by x's, we can help you determine a rough age. Without my book handy I'd guess at least 30-35 years tho.
 
I want a flat latch RB 2" in Ca. The CR Sam method has netted me a 1999 production S&W 296 and a Ruger 3 screw .30 carbine in my search for mod 12!:rolleyes:
 
I've had 3 model 12's. The frame is roughly 3/32" narrower than a standard K-frame until you get to model 12-4. The blue anodizing does not wear well. I sold my 95% 12-2 4" SB nickel for $300 yesterday. Earlier last year the blue 12-3 4" RB went for $275, as did the blue 12-3 2" SB. At $400 you're paying $100 for collector value. Look for a nice 37 or 442. You give up one shot but are cheaper and more concealable.
 
Popeye's right, BUT: the k frame trigger on 12's is usually better than the J frames. Being a bigger frame, it's also easier to handle. I remember long ago now-deceased gunwriter George Nonte (a real character) tried wearing out a model 12- his hand got tired before the gun did. I wish I had my 4" model 12 back that some lowlife stold in 1995.
 
My 2003 Gun Trader's Guide says one in excellent condition (new condition, used very little) is worth $260, and one in new or mint condition (new condition in every respect) is worth $365. This book says it was made from 1952-1986. I wouldn't be too concerned about the strength of an airweight, especially if the one you're looking at wasn't fired much. One high pressure round that I've been told can stretch a frame after a couple cylinderfulls is .38 special +P+. I'm no expert, but firing a handful of +P's is not going to damage an airweight. Just make sure to mostly fire standard pressure ammo. This sounds like a good gun for your wife, expecially since she likes it.

Note: I just looked at one on an online gun auction that is in excellent condition. To get that one in my mitts would cost at least $334.
 
I have two reports of Model 12 frames cracking where barrel screw thru. Never heard of a model 10 doing this!::confused:
 
Gordon, As per the frame cracking at the barrel threads I watched in astonishment as a M13 barrel fell off while it was being fired with .38 loads. Obviously the 13 was made for .357 pressures but there must be enough variation in dimensions that this is at least a potential weak spot for K frames.
 
Another source:

Gun Digests book of Modern Gun Values 12th Edition shows the M12 .38 Airweight values as follows:

Exc.: $250.00

Vgd.: $200.00

Gd. : $150.00


Keep in mind these are average values and can be higher or lower in certain areas. Now, if you want it and are willing pay $350.00 for example and, he is willing to sell for the same price, then that particular gun is worth $350.00 on that particular transaction.

;)
 
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