Colt Lawman: date of manufacture?

I'm new to this site so not sure if I am asking this question in the right forum, so I'll apologize now.

I have a Colt stamped Lawman MK III it is a snub nose 2" blue 357 mag serial # 01312U. I run it on the serial No. lookup and it comes back unrecognized. I've read the MK III was made from 1969 - 1978.

Does anyone have any idea how I can find out what date this was manufactured? I've uploaded some photo's to help I would appreciate any feed back.

I hope I did not get hurt on this one I paid $550 for it but it was in such nice shape I could not pass it up. This is the first Colt I've ever bought and hope it will not be the last.

thanks,
gwb4964

gotboostvr said:

For $550 I think you did well. I'd think you'd be able to make your money back if you decide you don't want it.

A 357 colt of any kind for 550 isn't a bad deal.

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thanks this is the first Revolver I've ever bought of any value. I went on line to check it out and just took a chance. I appreciate the feedback.
gwb4964

gotboostvr said:

Looks like it's in great shape too!

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just a couple of small blemishes does not look like it has been holstered much if any. It has been shot as there is some residue between the barrel and cylinder I have not put it in the tank yet to clean it but it is in very good condition no head space tight I'm very pleased with it.
gwb4964

Odd Job said:

Renamed thread, might get relevant interest then.

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Being new to the forum I goofed I did not intend to put Dr. Rob I thought that was were you put the person to send it to. How do I rename it?

ColtPythonElite said:

X2 on the grips. Fortunately, I have a couple of sets of take-offs laid back

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Want to sell a set?

Gordon said:

They we t thru three barrel profiles and unshrouded and shrouded treatments on the snub during it's production.yours is final shrouded configuration Your finish is gorgeous, as is my 1978 version is, I say just prior to Colt polishers strike of 1980 . Going by memory on the detail of strike date but bet I'm close

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Thanks it is very nice I’m looking forward to shooting it this week.

Gordon said:

You know they were called " the ear wax gun " back when they were made. They are Abit fatter than a 2.5" S&W but smooth er for CCW. I had both heavy barrel unshrouded and later shrouded like yours. I miss them .I got more than you paid , for mine , inover 10 years ago.

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Thanks for the input I just bought a Colt Commando 4" 38 spl. today for $325 in fairly good condition parkerized finish does not have the flaming balm symbol on it good head space and tight.
gwb4964