Odd markings on my NIB 66-2

[357wheelgunner]

I found a new in the box model 66-2 at a gunshop (4" model). They must've had it in their safe for the last 20 or so years. Anyway I picked it up fast for $425.

The wierd thing is that there are all sorts of odd markings on the grip frame. I took the Goncalo Alves grips off and on one side of the grips there is a "B" in a circle, the number "07566", and a "J in a triangle. On the other side it says "E10", "F7", "S", "A14", and "71255". None of these is the serial number, I have no clue what they mean. Can someone enlighten me please?

 

[yesterdaysyouth]

assembly numbers, you proballly find some of those numbers also on the inside of the sideplate and on the cylinder crane as well...

 

[dfariswheel]

Those are all inspection and assembly stamps from the factory.

S&W was always big on putting numerous inspector's marks on the butt where they'd be covered by the grips, and the ones you listed are common examples.

 

[357wheelgunner]

Thanks guys!

 

[Jim K]

Those marks may also indicate the supplier of the metal, the particular alloy used, the assembler and other info of use if there are any problems with the gun.

Jim

 

[Ruger Redhawk]

357 WG Just out of curiosity what sight does your's have? The early ones came with a Stainless Steel sight. Later models has a Blued sight.My 4" has the S/S sight along with a Model 67,I bought in 1972.

Ruger Redhawk

 

[357wheelgunner]

It has stainless front and blued rear. The front is a part of the barrel, it is not pinned in like my brand new model 66-6. It seems more sturdy this way anyway. The rear sight is blued, and seems to be of much higher quality than my model 66-6 as well (the sight blade in my new 66-6 wobbles slightly)

 

[Ruger Redhawk]

Thanks 357 WG.Both my 66 and 67 have the stainless rear sights.I know I got my 67 in 1972 and probably around 74 on the 66.Then I have a 66 w/ 2 1/2"bbl that has the Blued rear sight.Either way they are nice guns.I appreciate the information.

Ruger Redhawk