Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Auction Company is pleased to present this ONE-OF-A-KIND double-action revolver with an even more unique history for a penny-start auction; this is the Smith & Wesson .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950, also known as a “Pre-Model 20!”
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According to the included factory letter, “We have researched your Smith & Wesson. 38/44 Heavy Duty Pre-Model 20, Five Screw Variation, caliber .38 S&W Special, (fixed sight) model in company records which indicate that your handgun, with serial number S84602, was shipped from our factory on April 18, 1951, and delivered to Padgett Brothers Inc., Dallas, TX. The records indicate that this handgun was shipped with a 4-inch barrel, blue finish, and checkered walnut grips.”
This particular firearm was the actual sidearm carried by Texas Ranger Aaron Hull throughout his entire law enforcement career. Ranger Hull served with distinction in both Company A and Company B of the Texas Rangers during the 1950s and 1960s, a period marked by significant challenges and developments in Texas law enforcement. Over the course of his lengthy and dedicated career, Hull became known for his commitment to justice and his pivotal role in various high-profile cases across the state. His experiences not only shaped his career but also contributed to the legacy of the Texas Rangers during a transformative era in the region’s history.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950 “Pre-Model 20”
Serial: S84602
Date of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 4"
Optics/Sights: 1/10" Forged Round Blade Front with Square Notched Rear
Stock/Grips: Custom Wood Grips with Faux Stag Overlay
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The .38/44 Heavy Duty revolver, introduced on April 1, 1930, represents a significant advancement in revolver design, built on the robust frame of the .44 Hand Ejector Third Model. Initially standard with a 5" barrel and weighing 40 ounces, the Heavy Duty was also produced in 4" and 6" barrel lengths, catering to various user preferences. Over its production run in the 1930s, which spanned serial numbers from 35,037 to 62,350 in the N frame series, a total of 11,111 pre-World War II models were manufactured. This revolver gained a reputation for its durability and stopping power, particularly when firing the .38 Special Super police loads. After a hiatus during the war, the .38/44 Heavy Duty was reintroduced on June 18, 1946, at serial number S62,940, incorporating new safety features like the rebound slide-activated hammer block, which had been developed during the war. In 1948, the revolver saw further enhancements with the introduction of a short action mechanism, remaining unchanged until its discontinuation in 1966. In 1957, it was officially designated as the Model 20, reflecting Smith & Wesson's system of assigning model numbers. The Heavy Duty’s counterpart, the .38/44 Outdoorsman, was introduced shortly after and featured a target-sighted design with a standard 6½" barrel. Both models shared a similar production fate, with the Outdoorsman also experiencing changes after the war, including a new ribbed barrel and updated sights. The total post-war production for the Heavy Duty reached 20,604 revolvers, while the Outdoorsman accounted for 8,365 units, reflecting their continued popularity.
Model: .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950 “Pre-Model 20”
Serial: S84602
Date of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 4"
Optics/Sights: 1/10" Forged Round Blade Front with Square Notched Rear
Stock/Grips: Custom Wood Grips with Faux Stag Overlay
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The .38/44 Heavy Duty revolver, introduced on April 1, 1930, represents a significant advancement in revolver design, built on the robust frame of the .44 Hand Ejector Third Model. Initially standard with a 5" barrel and weighing 40 ounces, the Heavy Duty was also produced in 4" and 6" barrel lengths, catering to various user preferences. Over its production run in the 1930s, which spanned serial numbers from 35,037 to 62,350 in the N frame series, a total of 11,111 pre-World War II models were manufactured. This revolver gained a reputation for its durability and stopping power, particularly when firing the .38 Special Super police loads. After a hiatus during the war, the .38/44 Heavy Duty was reintroduced on June 18, 1946, at serial number S62,940, incorporating new safety features like the rebound slide-activated hammer block, which had been developed during the war. In 1948, the revolver saw further enhancements with the introduction of a short action mechanism, remaining unchanged until its discontinuation in 1966. In 1957, it was officially designated as the Model 20, reflecting Smith & Wesson's system of assigning model numbers. The Heavy Duty’s counterpart, the .38/44 Outdoorsman, was introduced shortly after and featured a target-sighted design with a standard 6½" barrel. Both models shared a similar production fate, with the Outdoorsman also experiencing changes after the war, including a new ribbed barrel and updated sights. The total post-war production for the Heavy Duty reached 20,604 revolvers, while the Outdoorsman accounted for 8,365 units, reflecting their continued popularity.
This specific .38/44 Heavy Duty, identified by the serial number S84602, was shipped on April 18, 1951, to Padgett Brothers Inc. in Dallas, TX. It features a 4" barrel, blue finish, and checkered walnut grips, highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that Smith & Wesson is known for. The design and functionality of the .38/44 Heavy Duty not only established it as a formidable sidearm of its time but also paved the way for the development of the .357 Magnum, underscoring its significance in the evolution of revolver technology.
Contents:
Contents:
This exceptional example comes complete with a custom-built wooden presentation case, thoughtfully designed to commemorate Aaron Hull, featuring the firearm's correct serial number. In addition to the pistol, the package includes a factory letter requested by Hull's family, providing provenance and historical context. The ensemble is further enhanced by his duty holster, a cherished item that adds to the narrative of its use. Accompanying these artifacts is one of his company A badges, which is a tangible connection to Hull's service and legacy. To further enrich this collection, the Jay Banks book “Legend in Bronze,” in which Hull is featured, is also included. This unique combination of items not only highlights the significance of the firearm itself but also preserves and honors the memory of Aaron Hull, making it a remarkable tribute for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
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Payment Details
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Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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