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Early and unique Smith & Wesson Model 63 .22 LR with 6-inch barrel, ivory grips, box, collection of gunwriter Dick Metcalf, layaway
Guns International #: 103046713 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: Smith & Wesson Revolvers - Rimfire - .22 Revolvers
Seller's Information
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Seller: Sportsman's Legacy
Company: Sportsman's Legacy
Member Since: 7/14/10
First Name: Dwight
Last Name: Van Brunt
State: Montana
Country: United States
Phone: (406) 212-0344
Seller: FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
Payment Types Accepted: Money order, cashiers check, wire, personal check (banked 10 days), Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and debit (all cards add 3.5% convenience fee). Layaway available. No outbound sales tax is collected.
About Us: Sportsman’s Legacy provides professional representation for individuals, estates and organizations relating to fine firearms, sporting collectibles, art, books and accessories. Services include consignment, purchasing, valuation, estate planning and national placement consultation. Shipments to California as well as international destinations (via a US-based exporter of customer's choice) are welcome.
Description:
Very early Smith & Wesson Model 63 .22 LR. A grand quandry, this one. Serial M105079 (2x: frame and cylinder) left the factory on August 1, 1978 with a four-inch barrel. It currently has a six-inch pinned barrel (tapering rib, red ramp, what appear to be factory markings), semi-target hammer (.375-inch wide, checkered spur), wide trigger (.400-inch, serrated face) as well as ivory grips with medallions. PROVENANCE NOTES: Recent Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation research was unable to provide insight into the origin of these unique features and, after reviewing photos, the representative commented via email “…our service records for the 1970s and 1980s are dreadfully incomplete, so the barrel is almost certainly a factory job.” While the revolver will not letter in its current configuration, the following legend is typed on the back of Dick Metcalf's business card (included) as was found in the box: “Smith & Wesson 6-inch Model 63 .22/23 (typo noted) Kit Gun Stainless - The only authenticated factory original specimen in existence.” Given Metcalf's relationships with Smith & Wesson principals, it is certain he had solid information on which to base this statement. Moreover, it as most unusual for Dick to create a paper trail for any of his firearms and only a few other notes of this type were discovered during curation. The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd Edition has the following statement on page 224 under the Model 63 - “Two are reported with a 6” barrel as test and evaluation units…" but neither serial given is a match. As a secondary point of interest, the date January 31, 1977 is stamped inside the box lid. CONDITION: The bore is strong and bright. Cylinder walls are smooth. Mechanics operate properly. Metal finish is approximately 90 percent. Grips have drying cracks. INCLUSIONS: Box with attached (showing six-inch) and separated (showing four-inch) end labels, instructions, warranty card and unused tools (six-inch rod) are present. PROVENANCE: A Certificate of Authenticity signed by George Metcalf (brother) will be included. The price is firm and layaway is available. $5,000 plus shipping. DICK METCALF: P. Richard “Dick” Metcalf (1946-2023) spent the majority of his adult life participating in and profoundly influencing the shooting and hunting industry. For over 40 years, his features and columns were cornerstones of publications such as Guns & Ammo, Handguns, Petersen’s Hunting and of course Shooting Times. Dick also hosted several cable television shows associated with these publications. Dick Metcalf influenced the shooting and hunting worlds for the better and his contributions are certain to stand the test of time.
Price: $5,000.00
Handgun Caliber: .22 Long Rifle