When I was growing up, my father was one of the bigger Smith & Wesson collectors in Northern California. This led him to have an acquaintance with Roy Jinks of S&W. I remember Mr. Jinks and his family coming to California and staying at our home. One night at dinner, my mom served artichokes. Since he was from the east, where it was not a common dish at the time, Mr. Jinks asked politely, “How do we eat these?” It was a funny moment from my childhood.

As an avid collector and shooter, my father started us all off at an age that many people today might think was much too young to introduce children to the sport. I was 4 years old when I shot my first M1911 at our local gun range. He instilled in me, my brother and my sister the importance of safety and handling from the moment we could understand. It was both an education in responsibility and an appreciation of the history behind the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.

This brings us to my favorite firearm. In 1957, my father purchased a Smith & Wesson Model 19 revolver in .357 Mag. for my birthday, to give to me when I was of age. This revolver is a beautiful example of the craftsmanship and quality of S&W. I gladly received it at the appropriate age, but I had already shot it extensively before then. It has always been a good shooter and has been lovingly taken care of.

I have both the original box and its receipt kept safe and protected. When the time comes, my son will be the recipient of what has become a family heirloom filled with wonderful memories and meaning.

Article by AMERICAN RIFLEMAN STAFF

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