S&W 38 SPL mfg date?

[mrfantastic]

I'm looking for some help in finding the age of a revolver handed down through the family. What I have learned so far is, it is a five screw S&W M&P six shot, SN 164264. I found a forum that had a serial number list but it didn't have a date for this one. The latest patent number on the barrel is 1909. It is reported to be a deputies revolver from the early 1920's or 1930's time frame.
Any help or ideas on how to find out the date?
Thanks in advance.

 

[thatguy]

I want to say 1916 but I may be wrong. I have a similar gun that dates from this year but I can't recall if its number is 16,500 or 165,000. I think it's the latter making it very close to yours.

 

[deadin]

Probably a M&P Model 1905 3rd Change. That serial number falls into its range.(146900-241703) They were produced circa 1909-1915. The only way to really nail it down would be a factory letter from S&W ($30)

Dean