S&w 38/44

[PattonTime]

I just bought a S&W N frame pre model number 38 special
It has fixed sights and a 4" barrel It is in about 85 percent condition with one problem for me, it has a bobbed hammer . I am wondering if any one can describe the hammer
that should be in the gun as I want to buy a good used unbobbed one.
P.S. I checked gun parts already and they don't show it.
Thanks in advance for any replys

 

[Jim K]

That gun is the "N" frame, like the .357 Magnum.

If you are trying to match the original hammer, it might not be easy. S&W modified their hammers several times in the 1930-1957 period, and I am not smart enough to know just what hammers go with what serial numbers. Maybe someone else is, so if you could post the serial (x out the last two digits if it makes you feel better), maybe someone can help.

Since the changes were mostly in the hammer spur, it might be enough to know if the gun is post-war or pre-war (long or short action).

GPC can often furnish the correct parts if you provide the serial number of the gun.

Jim

 

[PattonTime]

I believe it to be postwar as the ejecter rod is "normal looking to me"
Serial number is S 148026

 

[OFT]

Your 38/44 is post war. It will take a short action N frame hammer with the firing pin mounted on the hammer. The proper one would be the thinner hammer but it should work fine with a target hammer. Gun Parts Corporation or Brownells may have just what you need. Shouldn't be too hard to find.