S&W Model 34-1

[ZBill]

Folks: Can anyone tell me the manufacture date for a S&W .22 snub-nose Model 34-1 with the SN 121,XXX?

Thank you, Bill

 

[Ron James]

Appoximate Between 1966 and 1969. 1965 ended with 108087, 1969 ended with 135464.

 

[XavierBreath]

I can narrow it down a bit further.

My Model 34-1, serial 131XXX was manufactured in 1968. Your's should have a smooth diamond in the center of the grip checkering, around the grip screw.

Roy Jinks can tell you for certain when it shipped, for $30.

 

[ZBill]

Thank you. This 34-1

does not have the grips with the diamond surrounding the grip screw as the one mentioned for some reason. Please see attached photo. The grips are stamped with the corrrect SN. I think it is a square butt. I really enjoyed your article on your 34-1. I look forward to encountering some dangerous cans tomorrow! Thanks to both responders.

Bill

 

[XavierBreath]

If the grips are serialed to the gun, then they are no doubt correct. The diamond was deleted in 1968. S&W did have a habit of mixing the old with the new to meet the demands of orders. It is entirely possible that your sqaure butt frame was made prior to 1968, but the gun was not "gripped" and then blued until afterwards. Without the diamond grips, it shipped after 1967.

One thing.....It looks like you have a rear sight with the vertical serrations. When I first saw that on mine, I thought "Oh no.......a Rossi sight on a Smith...." After some research, I learned that the Model 34 came with rear sights in both vertical and horizonal serrations. The rear sight is correct.

Enjoy the revolver! You got a good 'un!

 

[ZBill]

Thank you...

yes, that is some sight perched on it. Just picked it up today. To the range in the morning for my first try at shooting it. What a great forum! Regards, Bill