Unusual S&W M65-5 LS

[farscott]

While browsing at a local gunstore, I found a rather unusual S&W M65-5 LS with serial number CBBxxxx. It has all of the usual features of the M65 LS, and it was in excellent condition. Based on powder debris in the barrel, it is obvious it has been fired, but it does not appear to have seen many rounds. The thumb piece is the latest "triangular" type, and the extractor rod has the flat on the side to key it to the cylinder assembly. The firing pin is mounted on the hammer. It comes in the soft LadySmith case and also has the blue plastic outer box (with no foam).

It is unusual because the frame tangs were serrated. It was my understanding that only the tangs of target-sighted pistols were serrated. I assume that this M65 used a frame that was supposed to be used on a target-sighted revolver, but it somehow ended up on the M65. I see that there is a reference to the serrated tangs on this model in the Suphica & Nahas book, but there is no mention of its rarity.

The asking price is kinda high at $495. What is a decent price to offer for this model? I have only seen two M65 LS revolvers in the last few years, and I would like to snag this one at a fair price.

 

[Brian Williams]

The price is a little high in regards to a normal 65 but becuse it says Ladysmith it is about right. The action should be very good. The rear back strap being serrated is also a mystery to me.

 

[RON in PA]

Don't have my Smith reference book with me, but I do remember that for a while in the mid to late 1990's many of the K frame revolvers had serrations on the straps even if they were issued with synthetic grips that covered the serrations.

 

[PigPen]

You know, I actually find that many people buy firearms, shoot a few rounds then put it away in a drawer for years without firing it. This seems especially true about snubs which are primarily used for carrying or putting in a drawer and not shooting.

PigPen

 

[tbeb]

I don't know about the serations, but a 65 Lady Smith is worth about thirty bucks more than a 65 M&P. My book says $300 for a Lady Smith in excellent condition.

 

[farscott]

Thanks for the replies. After some haggling, it is now in my safe.