.38 Smith and Wesson info requested

[k9brooke]

I have a .38 S&W Revolver with a serial # stamped on the butt 432374. The last patent date on it is Aug 9, 1889. It has a 4 inch brl with a brown grip. How can I accurately date this gun.

 

[FPrice]

The absolute best and most accurate way is to send a history request to Mr. Roy Jinks at S&W. Follow this link:

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...catalogId=11101&content=25301&sectionId=10504

 

[Starter52]

SCSW is not much help. #241704 was made in 1915. #700000 was made in 1942.

 

[Jim K]

The gun is not a .38 Hand Ejector (M&P). With that patent date, it is a .38 Double Action (breaktop), Fourth Model, made between 1895 and 1909.

FYI, that serial number was made after 1 January 1899, and so is NOT an antique under federal law.

Jim

 

[Ron James]

The term .38 Smith and Wesson instead of .38 Special should also have raised some doubts.