Need help id'ing a S&W .357

[Skrapwelder]

I'm new to the forum and looking for a bit of information on a pistol I've recieved from my mother in law.

Its a Smith & Wesson .357
Serial #1638XX On the butt plate there is an "S" to the left of the serial number.

Inside the yoke, where the ejector rests is the letter "Y" and below that the number: 767XX

Any help id'ing this weapon would be most appreciated.

Thanks

 

[P95Carry]

Welcome

So far that ''S'' and the number points to an N frame of 1956-57 vintage but - not sure what. Any chance of a pic?

If .357 then I am thinking early M27, M28 right now.

 

[Skrapwelder]

Not the best picture. Hope it helps

 

[bigger jon]

?

Looks like a N frame, could be a 27 or 28 By far one of the strongest S&W made for the 357

 

[Logan5]

From the picture, not a 28 with those sights and that blueing. I'm guessing if it said "Highway Patrolman" on there then there wouldn't be a mystery. The grips are interesting, too... It's aparently pinned and recessed. Can we get a pic of the top? I'm guessing somewhat early M27.

 

[XavierBreath]

The serial is for a 1956-1957 N frame.

These guns were known as The .357 Magnum back in 1956. In 1957, the Model 27 came along, and the prior guns became known as pre-Model 27's. Essentially what you have is a revolver that became the Model 27 in the next year. Nice gun!

 

[P95Carry]

I'll go with M27 from the apparent pic attributes.

Should be a five screw this early. Most collectible.

 

[Skrapwelder]

A pic of the top.

It's got three screws on the side plate and one more on the front of the trigger guard.

Thanks for all the input.

 

[XavierBreath]

Yep, it's a pre-Model 27, AKA a S&W .357 Magnum.

There should be another side plate screw underneath the grip. Be careful with the grips, they are bringing good money nowadays.