I have always liked the older fixed sight L & N Frame S&W models more than the older traditional adjustable sight S&W models. They just have a look that I really like. Anyway, there are not a lot of fixed sight models out there and finding them can be a real challenge. I have been lucky enough to acquire four models, and I thought I would share them. Yeah, you could say that I am a showoff, but hey, this is ODT, and believe me, I have been called worse. So, oldest to the newest by age.
Model 38/44
Only shoots .38 and on the same frame, N frame, as the .44 mag. Thus, Model 38/44.
Model 58
.41 mag, N frame, and only came with a 4" barrel. This gun did not sell well for S&W, only 20,000 made. Less than 15%, so I am told, in nickel.
Model 520
.38/.357, N frame, only came with blue finish, 4 inch barrel, only 3000 produced for the NYSPD.
Model 581
.38/.357, L frame, same as the Model 586 but with fixed sights.
Model 38/44
Only shoots .38 and on the same frame, N frame, as the .44 mag. Thus, Model 38/44.
Model 58
.41 mag, N frame, and only came with a 4" barrel. This gun did not sell well for S&W, only 20,000 made. Less than 15%, so I am told, in nickel.
Model 520
.38/.357, N frame, only came with blue finish, 4 inch barrel, only 3000 produced for the NYSPD.
Model 581
.38/.357, L frame, same as the Model 586 but with fixed sights.