Smith & Wesson Modelo 1917
One of the more interesting guns I found at the gun show today was a Smith & Wesson Model 1917 from Brazil. 
In 1937, 25 thousand Smith & Wesson .45ACP Hand Ejectors were purchased by the Brazilian government. These fall in the 181983-207043 serial number range. The Brazilian guns have a Brazilian star seal with 1937 beneath it. There were actually two separate shipments, one in 1938, and another in 1946.
These revolvers shipped to Brazil with plain grips, a serrated trigger, and a lanyard ring. In 1990, a large quantity returned to the United States, and bear the importer's mark. They generally sell for 50-75% under a US Property marked S&W 1917 according to Supica's Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson.
The example at the show had no remaining finish, and no importer's mark. It also sported diamond magna grips, and came with no moon clips to hold the .45ACP ammo. The seller was wanting $400 for his revolver. It was interesting, but I did not give a counter offer. I could not even come close, and I did not want to insult the man.
In 1937, 25 thousand Smith & Wesson .45ACP Hand Ejectors were purchased by the Brazilian government. These fall in the 181983-207043 serial number range. The Brazilian guns have a Brazilian star seal with 1937 beneath it. There were actually two separate shipments, one in 1938, and another in 1946. These revolvers shipped to Brazil with plain grips, a serrated trigger, and a lanyard ring. In 1990, a large quantity returned to the United States, and bear the importer's mark. They generally sell for 50-75% under a US Property marked S&W 1917 according to Supica's Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson.
The example at the show had no remaining finish, and no importer's mark. It also sported diamond magna grips, and came with no moon clips to hold the .45ACP ammo. The seller was wanting $400 for his revolver. It was interesting, but I did not give a counter offer. I could not even come close, and I did not want to insult the man.
Labels: Mil-Surps, Smith and Wesson
posted by Xavier at 11:35 PM
3 Comments:
I just purchased one of these for $399.00 on GunBroker. The serial no. is in the 160xxx range however so I suppose this particular example is what is known as a pre-contract Brazilian, made from whatever was on hand before the actual contract production run. Can't wait to get my grubby paws on it!
Just found this page. I have two brazilian re-imports, bought 20 years ago. Both have checkered and medalion walnut grips, exactly like on the new Smith retro 1917, although both sets are very, very worn.
I just traded for one of these serial number 162xxx. Mine has the diamond grips with medallion and has the brazil stamp with the 1937 date. It came with two moon clips and a box of ammo. Can't wait to learn more about this interesting revolver.
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