[Fatelvis]

Can someone post a guide for showing S&W`s manufacturing dates on its revolvers, according to its suffix number? Right now Im looking at a 629-4 , and would like to know when it was made, and would like to make sense of future models as well. Thanks!

[Ringer]

629-4 could be 1993 - 1997. Would need first 3 letters of serial number to nail down closer. Seems I have seen people post online guides but I'm not aware of location, maybe someone else can help.

I finally broke down and bought Standard Catalog of SMITH & WESSON 2nd Edition (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0873492722/qid=1117380257/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl14/104-7446776-8579129?v=glance&s=books&n=507846)

[Fatelvis]

serial# is BUF89XX. Thanks for your help! In your opinion, what is the best year these were made? Ive heard about an "endurance package" or something like that offered? :confused:

[Lord Bodak]

A bit off topic, but why don't more manufacturers put serial number history online like Ruger does? It would be awfully helpful.

[Majic]

but why don't more manufacturers put serial number history online like Ruger does
Because Ruger is a really a youngster in the game compared to S&W, Colt, Remington, Winchester, Marlin, etc. With only 50+ years of products his data base is much smaller.

A "BUF" prefix should put it somewhere in late 1994. You can call the factory for a closer date. The "Endurance Package" was not an option, but an improvement that was added as standard equipment. Your M629-4 has the built in Endurance Package.

[Fatelvis]

Thanks Guys