1942 Victory model

[demented]

 Yesterday I got a really nice Victory .38 special in a trade, first really historical handgun I've owned.  I'm having trouble deciding whether to shoot it or save for some future generation to enjoy.  I have other revolvers, this one I enjoy reading about,  even just looking at.

[Airsporter]

I enjoy shooting a few boxes a year out of mine (no +P) but its only in 'good' condition.  A local club I belong to has a "Great Wars" handgun match twice a year.  Lots of fun.
Is yours U.S. Property marked?  U S Navy marked seems to bring biggest premium. S&W will research it for about $40 and send you an official letter.  They tell you what configuration it left the factory in and when & to whom it was shipped.  Mine is a U S Defense Supply Corp Contract for Commercial Sales model - same as military but sold in US to qualified buyers - usually war plants.  It shipped to General Electric Co in Pittsfield MA on Feb 23, 1943.
BTW, many (most?) Victory models were made for export in 38 S&W cal. vs. 38 Special.  Some were rather haphazardly converted to 38 Special after the war. 

[Foggy]

I have one in 38S&W that made it's way back after it was altered by the Austrailian Police  into a snubby. I shot it a bunch  now it's on Nightstand duty kinda semi retired
 
Foggy