Identity and Date of Manufacture of S&W Revolvers - Page 147

Radagast · November 18, 2011, 08:58 PM

breeze010:
If you searched the entire thread you have the makings of a first class archaeologist. This thread is so old the first posts were in Ogham :P

The prefix was used from 1969 to 1983 for the stainless steel J framed Models 60 in .38 special. The Serial range R190001 to R220000 was used between 1977 & 1978, so 1977 seems likely for your revolver.

breeze010 · November 19, 2011, 12:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Radagast

breeze010:
If you searched the entire thread you have the makings of a first class archaeologist. This thread is so old the first posts were in Ogham :P

The prefix was used from 1969 to 1983 for the stainless steel J framed Models 60 in .38 special. The Serial range R190001 to R220000 was used between 1977 & 1978, so 1977 seems likely for your revolver.

Thank you for the quick response and excellent information. I tried to search the thread--not read it--and that was difficult enough. That date sounds dead on as I believe it was given to my family member as a wedding gift in the late 70's.

Thanks again,
b010

coondogger · November 19, 2011, 04:52 PM

Here are two more:

S 191742
N737601

coondogger · November 19, 2011, 04:54 PM

I probably should add the following information:

S 191742 is a .357 mag double action revolver. I think it's a model 19 but would like to know for sure.

N 737601 is a model 25 in .45 long colt.

wrs840 · November 19, 2011, 05:08 PM

Today's Pawn-Shop find:

a. .357
b. 6"
c. Square
d. 6 shot
e. Adjustable sight
f. AFD14xx
g. Model 19-5 ...(edit: not a 17-5... ...thanks, rc)

Thank you!

rcmodel · November 19, 2011, 05:18 PM

Well, I'm a little mystified, and confused.

A model 17-5 is a K-22 Masterpiece, not a .357 Magnum.

The serial number puts it about Nov 1983.
But the 17-5 change wasn't made until 1988!

So, you got me.
I have no idea what you have!

rc

wrs840 · November 19, 2011, 06:40 PM

oops... Senior moment typo. It's a 19-5. Thanks for the heads-up, rc. My post above is now edited.

Radagast · November 19, 2011, 07:04 PM

coondogger:
S191742 falls in the period 1958 to 1959. If it has adjustable sights then it is a .357 Magnum Model 27 or Model 28. Model numbers were introduced in 1957 and some guns stll made it out of the factory without the model number stamping. If there is no model number then collectors would classify it as the .357 Magnum or the Highway Patrolman respectively. A Highway Patrolman will have the name stamped on the barrel, the .357 Magnum will have a checkered topstrap.

N737601 dates your model 25-5 1955 Model .45 Target Heavy Barrel to 1980.

wrs840:
The Model 19-5 was mnanufactured from 1982 to 1988. As mentioned by RCModel, yours dates to around November 1984.

wrs840 · November 19, 2011, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Radagast

...yours dates to around November 1984.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rcmodel

...The serial number puts it about Nov 1983.

Sorry to be a pest, but is it 11/83 or 11/84 ?

Thank you very much !

Radagast · November 20, 2011, 07:15 AM

Hmm. Either RC mistyped or he has another source of info. The Standard Catalog of S&W notes that serial numbers in the AEVxxxx to EFJxxxx range shipped in November 1984.

coondogger · November 20, 2011, 07:24 AM

Thanks Rad.

Navarre · November 20, 2011, 07:16 PM

I found this one at a show today and was wondering what you could tell me about it..

1. 44 Magnum
2. 4 inch
3. Square
4. Adjustable
5. N344XXX
6. 29-2

Thanks for everything!

Navarre

Radagast · November 21, 2011, 07:40 AM

Navarre:
The Model 29-2 .44 Magnum was manufactured in the serial range N3xxxxxx in 1975 & 1976. It shared this range with the other N frame guns such as the Model 25, 27 etc, but not the Models 28 & 58. As yours is in the middle of that range I would guesstimate early 1976.
The 29-2 predates the Endurance Package introduced in the 1980s. Regular use of .44 Magnums will tend to wear the timing. Because of this I would use .44 specials or light handloads if shot a lot. if its just an occasional use toy then I would not be put off using factory .44 magnums.

Navarre · November 21, 2011, 04:43 PM

Thanks for the info!

bkwillia · November 22, 2011, 08:38 PM

Inherited this revolver from a grandfather. Would love to know a little more.

a) 38
b) 2"
c) square
d) 5
e) fixed
f) 2405xx / Mod-49

Radagast · November 23, 2011, 01:27 AM

bkwillia:
Your Model 49 Bodyguard was manufactured between 1959 (serial number 163051) & 1962 (serial number 295000).
The Bodyguard is a shrounded hammer variant of the Model 36 Chiefs Special intended for concealed carry - the hammer shroud reduced the chance of the hammer hanging up on clothing while still allowing the gun to be cocked for slow fire in single action.
The gun is round butt version, the back of the grip curving in slightly is considered 'round'. A square butt gun has the backstrap flaring out.
It should be safe to shoot with any standard pressure or PlusP rated ammunition. I would avoid any ammo marked +P+ as there is no industry standard for +P+.

bkwillia · November 23, 2011, 07:36 AM

Thanks Radagast....very helpful. I wasn't sure about the butt stock, but your explanation makes more sense that it is round. Glad to know +p is okay. I have only fired 38spl just to be safe.

I especially like that this gun is 50 years old. Aside from some wear on the edge of the barrel (likely from being stored in a leather holster for many years) it is in awesome shape.

Thanks again.

exavid · November 25, 2011, 11:38 PM

Just bought a Model 28 at our local gun club gun show,
a) .357
b) 6"
c) square
d) 6
e) adjustable
f) H 237991
g)Model 28 N frame
That number, if it is the s/n, should come from the butt of the grip (or under the barrel or face of the cylinder).

Radagast · November 26, 2011, 12:40 AM

exavid:
The serial number should be either N237991, which would make it a Model 28-2 manufactured between 1974 & 1977, with 1974 being likely; or S237991, which would make it a Model 28-2 manufactured in 1964.

exavid · November 26, 2011, 01:06 AM

Thanks for the information Radagast. I'm pleased to have this one to replace one I stupidly sold in 1982.

skoro · November 27, 2011, 05:54 PM

I have a S&W Model 17-5 with 4" barrel and serial #AUZ46xx that I suspect is early 80s manufacture as the barrel isn't pinned. I'd appreciate a better fix on the date from any of you experts out there.

Thanks!

aviators · November 27, 2011, 06:19 PM

I just acquired a black "Airweight 38 SPL. CTG" that has J412xx printed on the bottom of the butt. If you remove the grips, the numbers 298xx are printed on the left side of the butt, towards the bottom of the frame.

The numbers 298xx are also visible on the inside of the piece I believe is called the crane.

The hammer is external and is almost flush with the frame.

The gun is very small and compact, barrel size is maybe 1 1/4"

Does anyone have any information on this thing for me? I need to get a screw for the grips and I don't know where to begin. I think it might be a Bodyguard 638??

I've attached a few pictures, with the grips attached and detached. The grips seem like aftermarket plastic ones. I would like to get new grips or atleast be able to get these ones secured via a fine threaded screw. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

And also, would the following grip be compatible?

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/w...layErrorView_N

Radagast · November 27, 2011, 06:48 PM

skoro:
Per the Standard Catalog of S&W The 17-5 was manufactured between 1988 & 1989. It was the last Model 17 without the full lug barrel seen on the Model 617 today. Your serial number however dates to early 1987. I'm inclined to believe the serial number and not the books commentary.

aviators:
Serial number J41295 dates your gun to 1969 or 1970. Serial range for those years was J 1 to J99999.
The round butt J frame boot grip will fit, the round butt J frame has been in production for over 50 years and there are many aftermarket varieties, all of which should fit. It's probably simpler to buy new grips rather than search for a matching screw and nut.

Your photos did not attach. Based on your description and assuming a stainless finish, then yes you have a Model 638 Bodyguard Airweight Stainless. If a blued or nickel finish then it is a Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight.

Airweight refers to an Aluminum frame, so stick to standard pressure .38 special loads. PlusP or +P+ will wear the gun faster and may even cause the frame to stretch.
Crane is a colt term, S&W call it the yoke. The Model number should also be stamped under the yoke, but guns occasionally left the factory without this.

The numbers stamped under the yoke are called assembly numbers and were used to track parts in the factory. They have no meaning after the gun was completed.

Radagast · November 27, 2011, 06:50 PM

aviatior:
Pics are now visible. It's a Model 38.

Geezer Glide · November 27, 2011, 07:35 PM

I picked up a J Frame S&W Model 37 Airweight .38, 2 inch barrel, Serial J911XX, round butt. Any idea as to the age of this one? Thanks in advance.

November 18, 2011, 08:58 PM	#3651
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	breeze010: If you searched the entire thread you have the makings of a first class archaeologist. This thread is so old the first posts were in Ogham :P The prefix was used from 1969 to 1983 for the stainless steel J framed Models 60 in .38 special. The Serial range R190001 to R220000 was used between 1977 & 1978, so 1977 seems likely for your revolver. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 19, 2011, 04:52 PM	#3653
coondogger Member Join Date: August 18, 2009 Posts: 146	Here are two more: S 191742 N737601 __________________ Tu ne cede malis sed contra audientor ito

November 19, 2011, 04:54 PM	#3654
coondogger Member Join Date: August 18, 2009 Posts: 146	I probably should add the following information: S 191742 is a .357 mag double action revolver. I think it's a model 19 but would like to know for sure. N 737601 is a model 25 in .45 long colt. __________________ Tu ne cede malis sed contra audientor ito

November 19, 2011, 05:08 PM	#3655
wrs840 Member Join Date: October 18, 2008 Location: Brushy Mts, NC, growing feed-crops /BioFuel fodder. Posts: 1,885	Today's Pawn-Shop find: a. .357 b. 6" c. Square d. 6 shot e. Adjustable sight f. AFD14xx g. Model 19-5 ...(edit: not a 17-5... ...thanks, rc) Thank you! __________________ NRA Endowment Member. ...Public Service Bulletin: There's a reason they call it the "passing" lane, and not the "riding-right-next-to-somebody" lane. Last edited by wrs840; November 19, 2011 at 06:40 PM. Reason: I originally mis-posted the model#

November 19, 2011, 05:18 PM	#3656
rcmodel Member Join Date: September 17, 2007 Location: Eastern KS Posts: 41,213	Well, I'm a little mystified, and confused. A model 17-5 is a K-22 Masterpiece, not a .357 Magnum. The serial number puts it about Nov 1983. But the 17-5 change wasn't made until 1988! So, you got me. I have no idea what you have! rc __________________ Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Or all your primers in a glass jar!

November 19, 2011, 06:40 PM	#3657
wrs840 Member Join Date: October 18, 2008 Location: Brushy Mts, NC, growing feed-crops /BioFuel fodder. Posts: 1,885	oops... Senior moment typo. It's a 19-5. Thanks for the heads-up, rc. My post above is now edited. __________________ NRA Endowment Member. ...Public Service Bulletin: There's a reason they call it the "passing" lane, and not the "riding-right-next-to-somebody" lane.

November 19, 2011, 07:04 PM	#3658
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	coondogger: S191742 falls in the period 1958 to 1959. If it has adjustable sights then it is a .357 Magnum Model 27 or Model 28. Model numbers were introduced in 1957 and some guns stll made it out of the factory without the model number stamping. If there is no model number then collectors would classify it as the .357 Magnum or the Highway Patrolman respectively. A Highway Patrolman will have the name stamped on the barrel, the .357 Magnum will have a checkered topstrap. N737601 dates your model 25-5 1955 Model .45 Target Heavy Barrel to 1980. wrs840: The Model 19-5 was mnanufactured from 1982 to 1988. As mentioned by RCModel, yours dates to around November 1984. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 20, 2011, 07:15 AM	#3660
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	Hmm. Either RC mistyped or he has another source of info. The Standard Catalog of S&W notes that serial numbers in the AEVxxxx to EFJxxxx range shipped in November 1984. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 20, 2011, 07:24 AM	#3661
coondogger Member Join Date: August 18, 2009 Posts: 146	Thanks Rad. __________________ Tu ne cede malis sed contra audientor ito

November 20, 2011, 07:16 PM	#3662
Navarre Member Join Date: October 24, 2009 Location: Florida Panhandle Posts: 14	I found this one at a show today and was wondering what you could tell me about it.. 1. 44 Magnum 2. 4 inch 3. Square 4. Adjustable 5. N344XXX 6. 29-2 Thanks for everything! Navarre

November 21, 2011, 07:40 AM	#3663
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	Navarre: The Model 29-2 .44 Magnum was manufactured in the serial range N3xxxxxx in 1975 & 1976. It shared this range with the other N frame guns such as the Model 25, 27 etc, but not the Models 28 & 58. As yours is in the middle of that range I would guesstimate early 1976. The 29-2 predates the Endurance Package introduced in the 1980s. Regular use of .44 Magnums will tend to wear the timing. Because of this I would use .44 specials or light handloads if shot a lot. if its just an occasional use toy then I would not be put off using factory .44 magnums. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 21, 2011, 04:43 PM	#3664
Navarre Member Join Date: October 24, 2009 Location: Florida Panhandle Posts: 14	Thanks for the info!

November 22, 2011, 08:38 PM	#3665
bkwillia Member Join Date: November 22, 2011 Posts: 3	Inherited this revolver from a grandfather. Would love to know a little more. a) 38 b) 2" c) square d) 5 e) fixed f) 2405xx / Mod-49

November 23, 2011, 01:27 AM	#3666
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	bkwillia: Your Model 49 Bodyguard was manufactured between 1959 (serial number 163051) & 1962 (serial number 295000). The Bodyguard is a shrounded hammer variant of the Model 36 Chiefs Special intended for concealed carry - the hammer shroud reduced the chance of the hammer hanging up on clothing while still allowing the gun to be cocked for slow fire in single action. The gun is round butt version, the back of the grip curving in slightly is considered 'round'. A square butt gun has the backstrap flaring out. It should be safe to shoot with any standard pressure or PlusP rated ammunition. I would avoid any ammo marked +P+ as there is no industry standard for +P+. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 23, 2011, 07:36 AM	#3667
bkwillia Member Join Date: November 22, 2011 Posts: 3	Thanks Radagast....very helpful. I wasn't sure about the butt stock, but your explanation makes more sense that it is round. Glad to know +p is okay. I have only fired 38spl just to be safe. I especially like that this gun is 50 years old. Aside from some wear on the edge of the barrel (likely from being stored in a leather holster for many years) it is in awesome shape. Thanks again.

November 25, 2011, 11:38 PM	#3668
exavid Member Join Date: December 22, 2010 Location: Medford, Oregon Posts: 640	Just bought a Model 28 at our local gun club gun show, a) .357 b) 6" c) square d) 6 e) adjustable f) H 237991 g)Model 28 N frame That number, if it is the s/n, should come from the butt of the grip (or under the barrel or face of the cylinder). __________________ "...extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice... moderation in pursuit of justice is no virtue..." Barry Goldwater.

November 26, 2011, 12:40 AM	#3669
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	exavid: The serial number should be either N237991, which would make it a Model 28-2 manufactured between 1974 & 1977, with 1974 being likely; or S237991, which would make it a Model 28-2 manufactured in 1964. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 26, 2011, 01:06 AM	#3670
exavid Member Join Date: December 22, 2010 Location: Medford, Oregon Posts: 640	Thanks for the information Radagast. I'm pleased to have this one to replace one I stupidly sold in 1982. __________________ "...extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice... moderation in pursuit of justice is no virtue..." Barry Goldwater.

November 27, 2011, 05:54 PM	#3671
skoro Member Join Date: May 2, 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 1,373	I have a S&W Model 17-5 with 4" barrel and serial #AUZ46xx that I suspect is early 80s manufacture as the barrel isn't pinned. I'd appreciate a better fix on the date from any of you experts out there. Thanks!

November 27, 2011, 06:48 PM	#3673
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	skoro: Per the Standard Catalog of S&W The 17-5 was manufactured between 1988 & 1989. It was the last Model 17 without the full lug barrel seen on the Model 617 today. Your serial number however dates to early 1987. I'm inclined to believe the serial number and not the books commentary. aviators: Serial number J41295 dates your gun to 1969 or 1970. Serial range for those years was J 1 to J99999. The round butt J frame boot grip will fit, the round butt J frame has been in production for over 50 years and there are many aftermarket varieties, all of which should fit. It's probably simpler to buy new grips rather than search for a matching screw and nut. Your photos did not attach. Based on your description and assuming a stainless finish, then yes you have a Model 638 Bodyguard Airweight Stainless. If a blued or nickel finish then it is a Model 38 Bodyguard Airweight. Airweight refers to an Aluminum frame, so stick to standard pressure .38 special loads. PlusP or +P+ will wear the gun faster and may even cause the frame to stretch. Crane is a colt term, S&W call it the yoke. The Model number should also be stamped under the yoke, but guns occasionally left the factory without this. The numbers stamped under the yoke are called assembly numbers and were used to track parts in the factory. They have no meaning after the gun was completed. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy Last edited by Radagast; November 28, 2011 at 04:02 AM.

November 27, 2011, 06:50 PM	#3674
Radagast Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Posts: 3,367	aviatior: Pics are now visible. It's a Model 38. __________________ If you're 6'4" 360, with the scraggly beard wearing a kilt, I think you can leave the guns at home. Just throw on your tartan, grab the nearest sledgehammer, and chase the bad guy down on foot while yelling "REMEMBER WILLIAM WALLACE!!!" If he stops before he hits the state line, splatter him - MGshaggy

November 27, 2011, 07:35 PM	#3675
Geezer Glide Member Join Date: June 10, 2008 Location: South Carolina Posts: 186	I picked up a J Frame S&W Model 37 Airweight .38, 2 inch barrel, Serial J911XX, round butt. Any idea as to the age of this one? Thanks in advance.