Smith & Wesson GI Aircrew K Frame Grips ?

[buffalohunter]

I just bought a pair of grips on Ebay advertised as follows :
"Up for bid is 1 set of New original Smith and Wesson GI (For Air Force .38 Aircrew Revolvers) K-frame grips, (1 left 1 right). These are real Wood grips. Grips Are sealed in original Military package, Marked "GRIP REVOLVER 1ea. P/N 5910301"

The grips escutcheons are silver and show a bird with spread wings. There is a sticker inside the one grip on which is printed "MADE IN ITALY". The package was also marked 7/82. The entire grip, including checkering and inside of grip is covered with a thick coating of polyurethane. The quality of the grips is not up to S&W standards of the early 80's.
What do I have ? Are they US GI grips for a K-Frame or was I ripped off ?

 

[Johnny Guest]

Need more info

Easiest way to get some informed answers is for you to give the auction number so we can go to e-bay and look at the seller's images.

I understand the auction is closed, but I think the info stays up on the board for at least a few days.

Best,
Johnny

 

[Old Fuff]

They sound like something imported from Italy by SILE Distributors. I don't know if the Air Force bought any or not, but they could have on a lowest-bid basis.

Be that as it may, the revolver came with Smith & Wesson stocks, and the word "replacement" suggests that they are a S&W product - which they aren't. I have seen SILE stocks selling for $10.00 and under on CDNN Sports. If you paid more the $15.00 I'd say you got ripped off.