S&W 686 - determine year built

[jdedonato]

I have seen several threads on this. I am trying to get an idea (with paying 30 bucks for history from S&W) when my revolver was built. It is a 686 with a 6 in barrel, stainless, with pin on hammer. Model says only 686 with no dash.

I heard there was a way to count the threads on the gun to determine the year as well but that seems a little far fetched to me. Any truth to this?

Also, it is in fantastic condition, super smooth firing action (i think due to the pinned hammer) If I can figure out the year maybe I can figure out it's value.

Any help on this would be great. I am new to S&W ownership!.

 

[Black Knight]

Give Smith & Wesson a call. They will give you the year over the phone for free. If you want papers on it then you pay. They are good people there, very helpful.

 

[Sheldon J]

What He said...

usually with the SN they can tell you most of the guns information.

 

[jdedonato]

Thank you

I will give them a call.

 

[carl418]

If you would post the serial number, with the last few digits as x... I, or anyone with 'the Book', can give you the year of manufacture. But, if it's a 686 no dash, it should be 1980-1985.

 

[jdedonato]

Here it is

I think I read it correctly. Thanks for your help.

AEK XXXX

 

[carl418]

jdedonato, I haven't forgotten you! I'm at work, and will look up your serial number when I get home in a few hours...

 

[Catman253]

According to "The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas, it looks like your gun dates between January and November 1984.

 

[jdedonato]

Thanks a Million!

Now all I gotta do is get the darn recall for the trigger squared away with S&W and I will be all set. Thanks for looking that up for me!

 

[carl418]

Well, dang... maybe I should keep a copy of the SCSW at work.. lol. Sorry I didn't get back to you earlier, and you will really enjoy your new gun!