Help Understanding S&W 64-3 vs 64-5

[chanroc]

Please help the ignorant. My local gun shop has some Model 64s in great shape for $279. Some are -3s and some are -5s. From what I've researched -
64-3 1977-Gas ring change on 4" and
64-5 1988- Hammer nose bushing and yoke retention on Heavy barrel.

So does this mean the -5s are actually better or are the -3s better without the change?

Sorry if this gets asked a lot. Not having much luck with the search.

 

[rcmodel]

I would try to get the pick of the litter and not worry about the model changes.

Either model will get-R-done.

If it don't, S&W will make it so.

rc

 

[Lucky Derby]

Any made before the 64-6 change are about equal. The differnce between a -3 and a -5 is really only something a gunsmith needs to concern himself with, and then only if he needs to replace the parts that are different. Some may like the -3 because it should still be a pinned barrel, but as far as function goes, that really doesn't matter. Personally I would make my decision based on condition. Assuming equal condition -3 & -5 presented itself, I would most likely go with the -3, just because I am one who likes pinned barrels.

 

[chanroc]

Ended up picking up a -3, pinned barrel that was tight, Thursday. I'll probably get some replacement grips later, but she's ready to be shot. Hopefully, I'll be able to get out tomorrow and post some pics. Thanks everyone for your help.

 

[Lucky Derby]

Congrats. That is a good choice. Enjoy!

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Good for you. Don't forget the range report...

 

[evan price]

Hey Chanroc- Vance's? They had a barrel full of Ohio Dept. of Corrections model 64's of various conditions traded in for S&W M&P semi-autos. $319 was sticker for the 4" models, $399 for the 3" models. Most needed new grips and a polishing but were still mechanically fine.

 

[chanroc]

Well I forgot to grab the targets, but it shot great. Just using some 158gr Lead Semi Wadcutters from Bitterroot Valley Ammo, put 5 shots a little over an inch at 7 yards and shot point of aim (shooting double action). The gun could probably do better than that. I'm just an average shot. Anyhow, I love this gun. It may not be the prettiest, but it's a great shooter. I had loads of fun shooting it.

Evan Price - I picked mine up at Buckeye Outdoors. It's listed in this month's flyer for $279. (www.vanceoutdoors.com/flyer/flyer.pdf)

They only had the 4 inchers there. Might have to swing out to Vance's if they have a 3 inch version and pick one up. Yeah...the Pachmeyer grips on mine were well worn. I'll probably pick up a pair of Eagle Secret Service grips and put it on there. I'll have to take a before and after pic, once I polish it up and with the new grips on it. To me, it was a great buy.

 

[winfried]

For what it is worth. I am not much of a gun cleaner. I found that revolvers with gas ring do not allow much bullet lube and other substances to enter yoke/cylinder area inside.
Without gas ring, much bullet lube enters which does not matter while gun is hot from shooting, but putting it away dirty, the cylinder will turn difficult and damage to cylinder transport could result.

Regards