How to identify a s and W revolver and when was it made?

How to identify a s and W revolver and when was it made?

Many people have questions about how to identify a S&W revolver and when was it made. I borrowed this from a thread on Highroad.org forum. It has a lot of info that might be of interest to many of you. This is where to look for the model number (not used until around 1957). Sometimes the serial number is here, especially in later models.

Where can I find the serial number on a Smith and Wesson pistol?

Look up the pistol’s full serial number — including all letters and numbers — in the back section of the “Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson” book. These listings inform you of the pistol’s date of manufacture, based on the serial number.

Where was the first Smith and Wesson pistol made?

The Smith & Wesson company was formed in 1852, in Norwich, Connecticut. The company’s first offering was a lever-action repeating pistol.

Who are the owners of Smith and Wesson?

Family owned by the Wesson Family from 1874–1965. Smith & Wesson became a subsidiary of Bangor-Punta from 1965–1983. Between 1983–1987, Smith & Wesson was owned by the Lear Siegler Co. On May 22, 1987, it was sold to R.L.Tomkins, a British holding company.

Is the S & W Centennial a double action revolver?

Centennial: This is the name generally given to all “hammerless” S&W revolvers. They aren’t literally hammerless, but the hammer is completely internal, which means these revolvers can only be fired in double action.

What kind of Revolver does Smith and Wesson make?

A Guide to Smith & Wesson .38 Special & .357 Magnum Revolvers 1 J-Frame. The J-frame S&W revolver has become so ubiquitous that the term is often used as a generic reference to almost any small frame snub nosed revolver. 2 K-Frame. The classic S&W K-frame is one of Smith & Wesson’s most enduring designs. 3 L-Frame. 4 N-Frame.

Where are the 4 screws on the side of a S & W?

4 screws on the side (one normally under the grips) is the original way to hold the side plate on. The one in front of the trigger guard, the fifth screw retained the cylinder lock spring.

When did the 32-20 Hand Ejector come out?

.32-20 Hand Ejector 32-20 Win. K both of these used a shorter than standard cylinder. -1, 1961 Made in 38 AMU cartridge for military 87 made. 4 screws on the side (one normally under the grips) is the original way to hold the side plate on.

How many pages is the Smith and Wesson catalog?

Know what your Smith & Wesson firearms are worth with this up-to-date 76 -page .PDF download from the Standard Catalog of Firearms.