The
.38 Safety Hammerless, also called the
New Departure (and it's little brother, the
.32 Safety Hammerless) were interesting revolvers. They were the first S&W to feature an enclosed hammer and grip safety. The safety is gone today, but the enclosed hammer style remains and is exceptionally popular. The .38 was also the longest running top-break, being manufactured from 1887 to 1940. Standard barrel lengths were 3 1/4, 4, and 6 inches, but late production included a some with 2 inch barrels. Standard stocks were black hard rubber, but during the 5th model era some checkered walnut showed up, and pearl was always an available option. A buyer had a choice of two finishes, full blue with a color case hardened trigger, or nickel plate with a blued trigger guard and latch, and the same trigger.
The 5th (and last) model was made between 1907 and 1940, within a serial number range running from 220,000 to about 261,493. I would estimate that your Grandfather's revolver (#233,xxx) was made about 1910, give or take a couple of years.
Given this gun's history within your family, I suggest that you get it "lettered." To do so you will need a snapshot of the gun, a full description including the serial number on the butt, and a check in the amount of $30.00 made out to Smith & Wesson. In exchange the company's historian, Roy G. Jinks, will research the original records (which are not computerized by the way) and send you a letter containing the details of what he finds.
This comprehensive document will contain an overview of the model’s history, followed by the details of your particular gun. This usually includes the caliber, barrel length, finish, and the exact date it was shipped from the factory, and to what distributor or dealer. If there are any special features they will be listed too. This is often invaluable to both you and future generations.
Additional information on a historical letter will be found at the Smith & Wesson company website at:
www.smith-wesson.com
