The included factory letter confirms the barrel length and finish and states that the revolver "was manufactured by Smith & Wesson from obsolete parts for one of our Chicago distributors in 1965," thereby explaining the "oddities" of the revolver such as the serial number lacking the "K" prefix and barrel without rib. The letter provides a shipment date of 9 June 1965. It has pinned blade front and adjustable notch rear sights, checkered S&W medallion grips with the right panel numbered to the gun, casehardened checkered hammer and serrated trigger, 5-screw frame with S&W trademark and square butt. The factory blue box has an end label numbered to the gun and marked "38 M&P/Target" and "SPECIAL FEATURES: Long Action-Screw Sights."

Excellent plus. The revolver retains 99% plus original blue finish showing a cylinder drag line. The hammer and trigger retain nearly all of the vivid original case colors. The grips are near new with sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The box is excellent showing minor wear.