Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this double-action revolver today for a penny-start; this is the Smith & Wesson .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950 “Pre-Model 20."
This example features a 6 ½" barrel, which is RARE for this model, making this a more desirable example!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950 “Pre-Model 20”
Serial: S146222
Date of Manufacture: 1955-1956
Caliber: .38 S&W Spl
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 6 ½" Pinned
Optics/Sights: Blade on Ramp Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Diamond Checkered Walnut with Inlaid S&W Medallions
Action: Double
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950, commonly known as the “Pre-Model 20,” represents a pivotal evolution in law enforcement sidearms, particularly through its use by the Austin Police Department from 1952 to 1964. Designed to handle the higher-pressure .38 Special loads of the era, the .38/44 Heavy Duty was built on the large N-frame, offering enhanced strength and durability over the standard K-frame revolvers it replaced. A total of 249 nickel-finished 4-inch models, including 50 Model 20-2 marked variants, were issued by the department in multiple serial number batches. These revolvers remained in active duty until being phased out in 1968 by the more modern Model 27-2. Revered for their robust construction and performance, these revolvers proved essential to police operations, including their use during pivotal moments like the 1966 University of Texas Tower shooting, where one reportedly played a role in taking down mass shooter Charles Whitman.
Model: .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950 “Pre-Model 20”
Serial: S146222
Date of Manufacture: 1955-1956
Caliber: .38 S&W Spl
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 6 ½" Pinned
Optics/Sights: Blade on Ramp Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Diamond Checkered Walnut with Inlaid S&W Medallions
Action: Double
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38/44 Heavy Duty Model of 1950, commonly known as the “Pre-Model 20,” represents a pivotal evolution in law enforcement sidearms, particularly through its use by the Austin Police Department from 1952 to 1964. Designed to handle the higher-pressure .38 Special loads of the era, the .38/44 Heavy Duty was built on the large N-frame, offering enhanced strength and durability over the standard K-frame revolvers it replaced. A total of 249 nickel-finished 4-inch models, including 50 Model 20-2 marked variants, were issued by the department in multiple serial number batches. These revolvers remained in active duty until being phased out in 1968 by the more modern Model 27-2. Revered for their robust construction and performance, these revolvers proved essential to police operations, including their use during pivotal moments like the 1966 University of Texas Tower shooting, where one reportedly played a role in taking down mass shooter Charles Whitman.
This specific example, serial number S146222, was manufactured between 1955 and 1956 and stands out for its uncommon 6½-inch pinned barrel—an exceptionally rare configuration for the model. Finished in factory blue and chambered in .38 S&W Special, it features a blade front sight on a ramp and an adjustable rear sight, offering excellent accuracy. The revolver is further accentuated by diamond checkered walnut grips with inlaid S&W medallions, emblematic of mid-century Smith & Wesson craftsmanship. Its extended barrel not only increases ballistic performance but also enhances its collectibility, making this particular piece a standout among surviving examples of the historic .38/44 line.
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.
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.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
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
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
