Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Around the Campfire => Topic started by: okie64 on January 01, 2015, 09:54:21 am

Title: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: okie64 on January 01, 2015, 09:54:21 am

I know there are lots of gun guys on here so I thought I'd try here before I go and join another forum for one simple question. I have an older smith and wesson revolver that was given to me by my uncle years ago and I am very curious about its year of manufacture but I can't find any info on this serial number on the Internet. Apparently there is  a smith and wesson catalog but it cost 30 bucks or so and being this is the only smith I own I don't see the need in that. Anyway the serial number starts with s863###. Also there is no model number on the barrel, its simply stamped smith and wesson springfield , mass. Any info will be appreciated.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: bubby on January 01, 2015, 10:07:55 am

How about a pic

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: okie64 on January 01, 2015, 10:36:25 am

Geez, what is it with you guys and pics ;) I'll get one up shortly bubby.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: madcrow on January 01, 2015, 10:40:25 am

Pic pic pic pic pic pic.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: nmcnaughton on January 01, 2015, 11:32:55 am

the model number should be on the inside of the arm that the cylinder swings out on.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: okie64 on January 01, 2015, 11:57:28 am

(http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee503/Jamey_Burkhart/2D2EBF67-974F-437C-B249-87179EEA0F50.jpg) (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/Jamey_Burkhart/media/2D2EBF67-974F-437C-B249-87179EEA0F50.jpg.html)

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: half eye on January 01, 2015, 01:03:20 pm

There were a couple of models that shared that general profile, the model of 1917  (or model 17) but I believe most of those were chambered in .45 auto-rimmed  The overall look also could be a early model 10. I believe they came in various types of .38 cal and a couple of .32 cartridges.

The cylinder doesn't look to have enough clearance to be a 1917, so my guess (just a guess) would be a civilian model 10.
rich

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: madcrow on January 01, 2015, 01:22:54 pm

It would look good setting beside my K22 masterpieces.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: adb on January 01, 2015, 01:33:44 pm

Looks like a Model 10 to me. My Grandfather carried one chambered in 38S&W in the RCMP just after he got home from WWII.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: stickbender on January 01, 2015, 02:41:46 pm

     I would say it is a Model 10 also.  Is it .38 special, or .38 S & W?  Looking at the grips, I would assume it is a .38 special.  They are not inter changeable.  The .38 S & W is a very wimpy cartridge, which is why the Brits loved it.The .45 auto cal. model is much larger.  And took a rimmed cartridge, and can also shoot the .45 Auto, with either, half moon clips, or full moon clips.  It was not the .45 long colt.  Although S&W does make a model to shoot the .45 long colt.  For this gun,
I would only shoot standard .38 loads in it, not the plus P's, or Plus, plus P's in it.  It will take it, but will loosen the gun, and will wear more.  You have a very good, accurate, and serviceable pistol there.  They were use by the nations police forces for years.  Not the ideal defense round, but you can get a 110 grain, semi jacket hollow point, and it will make a good defense round.  You can get the plus p's, but I would use them only for defense, and not for target, or casual shooting.  Enjoy.

                                    Wayne

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: chamookman on January 01, 2015, 03:48:11 pm

Most likely a model10, but possibly an early model 14 ? Bob

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: H Rhodes on January 01, 2015, 04:40:18 pm

My guess is an old Model 10 or an M and P.  Is it a .38 special?  Either way, that is a fine revolver.

Title: Re: smith and wesson date of manufacture
Post by: okie64 on January 01, 2015, 10:15:21 pm

Yes it is a 38 special. The model number inside the arm of the cylinder starts with w328. Thanks for all the info fellas. Ive shot it quite a bit over the years and it is a fine shooting gun.