Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this double-action revolver today for a penny-start auction; this is the Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 23, also known as the 38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: Pre-Model 23 - 38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950
Serial: S148852
Date of Manufacture: 1955-1956
Caliber: .38 Smith & Wesson Special
Finish: Blued
Barrel Length: 6.5"
Optics/Sights: Adjustable Rear w/ Fixed Blade Front
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Grips w/ Inlaid Smith & Wesson Medallions
Action: Double-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Pre-23 .38/44 Outdoorsman (Model of 1950) represents the final developmental stage of S&W’s heavy-frame .38 Special revolvers before the company formally adopted model numbers in 1957. Rooted in the original 1930–1931 .38/44 Heavy Duty and Outdoorsman designs, these revolvers were engineered to fire the high-pressure .38/44 cartridge—an early predecessor to the .357 Magnum—using S&W’s large N-frame for added strength. The Outdoorsman Model of 1950 continued this tradition with refined postwar engineering, improved metallurgy, and the sleek “long-action” lockwork that collectors greatly appreciate. Produced only from 1950 to 1957, these transitional guns were never marked with a model number, which is why they are now referred to as Pre-23 examples. Today, the Pre-23 Outdoorsman holds a respected place among both shooters and collectors due to its limited production, exceptional build quality, and direct connection to the evolution of magnum-pressure revolvers. Its balance, crisp trigger, and robust N-frame durability made it a favorite among outdoorsmen and law-enforcement marksmen of the era, and surviving examples often show the high level of hand-fitting characteristic of early postwar S&W workmanship. Because the run was relatively short and overshadowed by the arrival of the .357 Magnum and later the Model 23 designation, the Pre-23 remains a desirable and somewhat scarce find—especially in high original condition—representing a pivotal chapter in Smith & Wesson’s high-performance revolver lineage.
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.
Model: Pre-Model 23 - 38/44 Outdoorsman Model of 1950
Serial: S148852
Date of Manufacture: 1955-1956
Caliber: .38 Smith & Wesson Special
Finish: Blued
Barrel Length: 6.5"
Optics/Sights: Adjustable Rear w/ Fixed Blade Front
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Grips w/ Inlaid Smith & Wesson Medallions
Action: Double-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Pre-23 .38/44 Outdoorsman (Model of 1950) represents the final developmental stage of S&W’s heavy-frame .38 Special revolvers before the company formally adopted model numbers in 1957. Rooted in the original 1930–1931 .38/44 Heavy Duty and Outdoorsman designs, these revolvers were engineered to fire the high-pressure .38/44 cartridge—an early predecessor to the .357 Magnum—using S&W’s large N-frame for added strength. The Outdoorsman Model of 1950 continued this tradition with refined postwar engineering, improved metallurgy, and the sleek “long-action” lockwork that collectors greatly appreciate. Produced only from 1950 to 1957, these transitional guns were never marked with a model number, which is why they are now referred to as Pre-23 examples. Today, the Pre-23 Outdoorsman holds a respected place among both shooters and collectors due to its limited production, exceptional build quality, and direct connection to the evolution of magnum-pressure revolvers. Its balance, crisp trigger, and robust N-frame durability made it a favorite among outdoorsmen and law-enforcement marksmen of the era, and surviving examples often show the high level of hand-fitting characteristic of early postwar S&W workmanship. Because the run was relatively short and overshadowed by the arrival of the .357 Magnum and later the Model 23 designation, the Pre-23 remains a desirable and somewhat scarce find—especially in high original condition—representing a pivotal chapter in Smith & Wesson’s high-performance revolver lineage.
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
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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.
