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Need help identifying an old 38 special

bma1977
I am trying to get some information for my father in law, he has a US Army issue 38 special model 1894. It was given to him from his father many years ago, he was told it was from the Spanish American war??? It has marking that are stamped into the frame that appear to be "RAC" and "LES" It also has a serial number that is very short 5771. Any info on what this gun may be and what its worth would be helpful.

mikes38.jpg
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3 comments

Date Votes
  • mark christian
    I am not a Colt expert but I do know my military acceptance stamps and RAC is Rinaldo A. Carr, who was active from 1875-1909 and who's initials appear on many thousands of Colt revolvers. LES is one that I am not familiar with.
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  • rufe-snow
    "RAC" was a U.S. Government inspector at Colt in the 1890's. The information you have is generally correct in that respect, other then the cartridge the revolver is chambered for. The revolvers Colt made for the U.S. military were chambered for the .38 Long Colt cartridge not the .38 Smith & Wesson special. The .38 Long Colt was originally a low pressure Black Powder cartridge. Even the later smokeless loadings for the .38 Long Colt aren't as hot as the .38 S & W Special.

    As the revolver and stocks have been refinished, also hammer and trigger engine turned. It has no collectors value now, not being factory original.
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  • tsr1965
    quote:Originally posted by rufe-snow
    "RAC" was a U.S. Government inspector at Colt in the 1890's. The information you have is generally correct in that respect, other then the cartridge the revolver is chambered for. The revolvers Colt made for the U.S. military were chambered for the .38 Long Colt cartridge not the .38 Smith & Wesson special. The .38 Long Colt was originally a low pressure Black Powder cartridge. Even the later smokeless loadings for the .38 Long Colt aren't as hot as the .38 S & W Special.

    As the revolver and stocks have been refinished, also hammer and trigger engine turned. It has no collectors value now, not being factory original.


    But it sure is purty...[:D] I would love to see some more pictures that are in better focus.
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