Smith Model 31 Kit Gun

[Bull Shoals]

Thought I might post a picture of a M31 Smith I had modified years ago into a kit gun. Sure beats a .22 on small game.

[GRIMJIM]

Sorry, I'm kind of ignorant when it comes to smith and wessons. Could you tell me what a kit gun is?

[Bull Shoals]

Not sure exactly when the term came about but it related to small framed ("J" by S&W) revolvers that were carried on the trail, woods etc, by many outdoorsmen. Usually of small calibre. The various 22 RF revolvers by Smith, "J" frame or 32  frame were also refered to as "Kit Guns" as they were light, could go into a small pack or pocket. My Smith is a 31-2 w/4" bbl. I had the adjustable sights installed for obvious reasons. Small, light, accuirate, it makes a dandy trail piece. I had looked for several years before finding a 4" bbl model. Don't know when they were discontinued in 4" but I think it was around 1972.

[35Rem]

"kit" was a term used, probably, before the 1940's (maybe earlier before car ownership was common) for a small pack or collection of neccessary items for a camping trip that might last a couple days to a week, maybe.
Before cars, folks who wanted to get away had to pack the BARE neccesseties when camping. The small frame 32 and 22 were handy to have along, but smaller than a rifle or bigger pistol, thus making being armed a lot easier.
Too big and it would be left at home.

[canon6]

That SIr is a fine example of a"kit Gun" I am very much a 32cal freak  I have 32ACP,32 S&W,32H&R, 327 and am still looking.   Doug

[GRIMJIM]

I have heard the term "kit" used to describe a day pack before, I just didn't lknow if that was the meaning or if the gun was available at one time as an unassembled kit. Thinking about it now that sounds kind of silly though.

[Walter Sobchak]

Bull Shoals,
That is a fairly rare and desireable Smith you've got there.The majority of 31's come with fixed sights.

The 32 Long is a great little round for a trail gun.

[winman]

I would love to find a .32 Long, H&R, or .327 with adjustable sights, maybe even a Ruger (he-he).

[pastorp]

Actually Walter most collectors want all orgional guns. While the adjustable sights are a definate improvement for usage, they would reduce the value to a collector.

winman, ruger chambers their SP101 in 32H&R. I guess I'm a 32 freak also. I have 2 ruger SS, a sp101, a 31S&W, a S&W 16, and 2 S&W airweights in 32 caliber.

Regards all, Byron

[Horsefeathers]

I have a "Kit Gun" it's a HighStandard Double Nine 4 inch bbl. The gun is very accurate . A Kit is a bag like muzzleloaders possible bag. Carry every thing possible in it. There is a song from WW-1  "Pack up your troubles in your old Kit Bag and Smile,Smile,smile---etc My Dad was a World War-1 Vet. Horsefeathers...

[9x19]

I've found my .22 J-Frames to be quite useful on small game, though I tend to favor the light weights such as my 317 and 43.





If I do feel the need for more "punch", there is always my 36-6 in .38 Special. 

[pastorp]

Horsefeathers, My dad was a WW1 vet also. Guess that ages us don't it. Byron