What does the number represent??

[snubbies]

I have a S&W Model 37-2 with the following Numbers embossed on the left panel (see Picture) CEJ 4404 (serial number) and 00362. What is the 00362. Called Smith they weren't sure???

 

[MMCSRET]

It is an assembly number used to keep all the parts to the gun in one box before a Serial Number is assigned. For all purposes after the S/N is assigned it is meaningless.

 

[Photoman]

Negative. That's more than likely an armory number. Do you know the history of the gun? Was it ever a police or other agency gun?

The assembly numbers are never put on the outside where you can see them.

 

[Old Fuff]

The assembly numbers are never put on the outside where you can see them.

Well yes and no. Smith & Wesson used to put an assembly number on the frame behind the yoke cut-out, and on the inside opposite surface of the yoke. The "yoke" is the hinge part the the cylinder is attached to when it is swung open and closed. When the cylinder is closed and latched you can't see either number.

At a later date they started stamping the serial number in the same area where the assembly number was, because they had started using stocks that wrapped around the bottom of the butt, and covered any serial number that was usually stamped there.

On the revolver in question, swing out the cylinder and see if the number 00362 is stamped on the yoke. I would not expect the serial number to be there too. It is also possible the #00362 is stamped on the inside of the sideplate, but it is equally possible that the serial number is there.

It's been awhile since S&W has used assembly numbers, and you may have talked to a new hire that was (or still is) unaware of assembly numbers.

Having looked at the picture after writing the above post, I agree that the number was either added by a buyer, or by S&W when it was sold on some kind of government contract. If you can't find out otherwise, and are willing to spend $50 to find out for sure, you can have it lettered.

Information concerning historical letters of authentication from Smith & Wesson’s historian, Roy G. Jinks can be obtained from the link listed below.

In exchange for a $50.00 research fee (make any check out to Smith & Wesson, not Mr. Jinks) he will search through the company’s original records until he finds your particular revolver. He will then send you an official letter which usually includes:

A short history of the revolver model’s background.

What the barrel length, caliber/cartridge, finish and stocks were, as well as the exact date it was shipped from the factory – and to what distributor, dealer or individual – as whatever the case may be.

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...4_750001_750051_757825_-1_757814_757812_image

 

[SaxonPig]

Typically that is some sort of departmental or agency number. Not sure which agency used your gun.

If you look closely you can see CCPD 432 in the same location on this gun. Corpus Cristi PD.




This one has FHP 1581 for the Florida Highway Patrol.




This one says Utah Highway Patrol 27.

 

[rcmodel]

I agree whatever it is, it is not a S&W assembly number.

IMO: It is some sort of agency or department inventory number of some kind.

rc

 

[snubbies]

Thanks for the info

The stampings on my gun are below the latch. In the pictures shown it is below the cylinder

 

[MMCSRET]

My 37 no dash has the mod # and a 3 digit assy number in the yoke and the 3 digit # on the frame under the left stock and on the crane itself. Can't remember if it was inside the side cover. S/N is on the butt.

 

[Old Fuff]

Your picture doesn't show the bottom of the butt...

If the serial number is stamped on the butt, but covered by the molded rubber stocks, I can see how a large organization would want it where they could see it without having to take the grips off.

I sort of think it was done by whatever department or agency got the gun. The numbers were apparently engraved etched or sandblasted into the frame, and the process cut through the original black anodized finish to the base metal (aluminum). At the factory they usually used a rollmark stamp.

 

[rcmodel]

Except they started using laser engraving when they started putting the serial number on the side of the frame like that one in the photo.

A roll-mark there would have smashed the hole for the crane.

rc

 

[Old Fuff]

Well they would have to have put an arbor in the hole to support it, but you do have a good point. I think the only thing that is going to solve this is a $50.00 fee, followed by a factory letter.

I also noticed that they're isn't much evidence of cosmetic wear. I wonder if it was ever issued or carried?