I know my Dad acquired the S&W in the 30's , The story goes he saw a classified ad in the Miami News or Herald...
Guns for sale ...He and my Uncle went to the address and there were several guns on the guys dinning room table.
My Dad had owned a Marlin in 32/20 and like the caliber... So he bought the Smith.
imagine that A (now) very liberal news paper, with open classified ads for private gun sales, WITH the guys ADDRESS
and I assume phone number .... NO FFL , no background , on transfer paperwork ....just show up , view the guns on a open table , and buy one !
OH! the horror,
The Miami News & Herald are both part of the Chicago Tribune conglomerate.... Chicago Tribune probably the MOST Liberal anti-gun RAG there is....