Age of a S&W Model 10

[marksman13]

Hi guys. I've got a question for some of you Smith and Wesson history buffs. A buddy of mine recently acquired a Smith and Wesson model 10 from his great grandfather. I was wondering if one of you could give me an approximate manufacture date. The serial number is 557XXX. Any information you could give me would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[Gator]

If the serial number is actually C 557XXX, then 1961-1962.

 

[marksman13]

nope, no c in front of it. He is pretty sure it is older than that. Thanks though. He may just have to pay Smith and Wesson the $30 they want for the history of it.

 

[tipoc]

If the serial number is 555xxx than it is likely from around 1939-1940 or so. Also it is not a Model 10. What your friend has is a .38 Spl. Hand Ejector Military and Police Model of 1905 4th Change. Or an M&P for short. This should be a prewar gun with the long action. The Model 10 did not show up till 1957 when the numbering system began before that they were called the M&P.

The serial number on these older guns will be seen 1.On the Butt. 2. On the rear of the cylinder face. 3. On the rear of the star extractor 4. On the barrel flat. These numbers will or should match. If they don't match it means somethings been changed. There was no model number stamped on the gun because there were no model numbers at that time. If there is a model number stamped on the yoke than it's a later gun.

$30.00 to Roy Jinks is a good deal.

Hope this helps.

tipoc

 

[marksman13]

Thanks tipoc, very helpful. I'm sure this gun isn't rated for +P, right? Dumb question I know. He shot some yesterday not knowing any better. The gun has an awful lot of holster wear, but the bore and cylinder is in great shape. Good shooter too.

 

[Old Fuff]

I would say a number in the 557,000 range would be a bit earlier, perhaps 1938 or early 1939. Only Roy Jinks at S&W knows for sure, and since it was your friend's great-grandpa's gun I would suggest that he spend the $30.00 to find out, especially if it's going to be handed down to future members of their family.

 

[Kevinch]

I'm sure this gun isn't rated for +P, right?

I wouldn't think so......

 

[tipoc]

A little +P won't harm the gun but a steady diet may accelerate wear. Practice with standard pressure loads and reserve the +P for defense at least that's what many folks do.

Old Fuff's likely right about the date.

tipoc