This 38/44 Heavy Duty has a round blade front sight, frame groove rear sight and a pinned 5 inch barrel. It has the standard S&W markings including the trademark below the latch on the left side (adopted around 1936) and matching serial numbers. The grips are engraved mother of pearl. A period correct blue Smith & Wesson box is included. The included factory letter discusses the history of this model and notes that this revolver (typo on number led to additional 7 on letter) was shipped on April 29, 1949, and delivered to Shapleigh Hardware Co. in St. Louis. It also confirms the current configuration, but indicates it was originally fitted with the standard checkered walnut grips.

Excellent with 97% plus bright original high polish blue finish. Displaying light handling marks, a light drag line on the cylinder and a trace of muzzle wear. The grips are very fine period replacements with a few areas of darker coloration, slight gaps at the junctions and light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The box is fair with corner and edge wear and some tears.