SaxonPig said:
I must confess that I have never understood spending thousands of dollars to convert a 38/44 to a 44 Special. Why not just buy a 1926?
SP, that's fair nuff question. This was discussed over in the blue forum sometime back. It, caliber conversions, was really popular back in the late 60s and early 70s. Converting M28 & M27s to 44Spl. when a M24 was as scarce as hens teeth.
My favorite revolver is a converted 3 1/2" 27 re-chambered to 44spl. Back last year I had pasted on my M24-3 to a good friend, I had an old 38-44 and a M24 3" barrel with a converted to 44spl. 27 cylinder in my desk...So, now I got me a good using fixed sighted 44spl.
Also, got a pre-model, 5 screw conversion in the works; a 3 1/2" that's gonna end up a .45 Long Colt. I know some would say, why 'wreck' them ol' 'N' frame that some collector might want...Well it's kinda like the old sayin' about the bird in hand, if'n the bird's in my hand she could wind up a good lookin' engraved and fine using 44 or 45. Custom guns gotta start some where.
One man's old revolver is another man's treasured friend. I don't collect guns, I use firearms as tools, be it in LE or working on the ranch. I like fine engraved firearms, be it shotguns, rifles or handguns. Some are factory engraved others a custom works of art with my cattle brand or some other personal touch added.
That says it's mine, just like my horses or cattle. I use them when and where I please, I don't have any that's to rare or good to be carried or shot. When my grandchildren sort throught 'em, I want them to say, 'I bet this one was Paw's favorite, look at the blue wear. No look at this one here, this'n has got to be his favorite with engravin' and ivory stocks...Hey boys, look here an old 44 and she still loaded!'
So, what I'm sayin' here is, a personal firearm is kinda like a suit of clothes, it's just better when it fits you and not everyone else. :mrgreen:
Su Amigo,
Dave
I would like to thank Joe Kent for his permission to post this pic of his 'Hamilton Bowen 38-44's converted to .44 Spl. and .45 Colt with Persinger Ivory steer head carved stocks ... and a 1955 nickeled Colt GM, also with Persinger ivory. Extra Fancy Floral carved holsters by El Paso...' :mrgreen:
(edited for language, English)