I'm considering buying one, of the two following guns:

1)A post-war S&W Pre-model 10(S/N S8304XX)that looks good(Except for some aging of the bluing-not bad though!)and, the lock-up is tight(Though, there is a little bit of fore and aft, cylinder end shake?)the grips look good-and, the bore and chambers look good-and, this gun, does not show any signs of abuse! This is a 5 screw M&P.

2)A model 10-5(S/N D908XXX)that has nice bluing, hardly a trace of a ring around the cylinder(Although, it has been shot several times)but, the only flaws that I can find, are a small, fuzzy, spot of hair-line scratches, on the cylinder(Hardly noticeable-unless viewing this, in correct lighting!)and, just a touch, of muzzle wear(At the tip of the barrel).

QUESTIONS:

Despite the fact that the older(Pre-Model 10, M&P)can't shoot .38 +P loads, I have the following questions:

1)Which of these guns, would be the best one to buy(For the same $200 price)?

2)Which of these guns are the better of the two, in quality-or, for any other reasons?

3)Is it possible, that the older Pre-Model 10, M&P, could still be a reliable shooter(Without any problems)?

4)I would like to hear about all of the reasons(Why or why not?)anyone out there, would choose one of these guns over the other gun? I can only afford to buy one gun(Not both)and, I need some expert opinions, in comparing the Pro's or, Con's of each of these guns?

5)I would be interested in knowing anything that can be offered, from anyone, about the above two guns(Or, why you might prefer one gun over the other gun)?

The newer gun has good quality and a better hammer block safety inside. The older will likely have a better trigger and possibly action. Firing cases of plus p will wreck both guns. A box a year wont.