a question for those knowledgeable /w S&W .38 revolvers

S

Severian

New member
I'll open with a Hello Everybody.[hello dr. nick]

As TFL has been a great source of firearms info for a newbie such as myself, I'd like to ask about two revolvers I saw today. I stopped by a gun shop after work, and looked at two used Smith and Wesson revolvers. Both were .38 special. However, I could not find a model number for the guns. They were both blued, fixed sights, unlugged (ejector rod exposed, with a pseudo-lug protecting the end); one was 2", the other 4". Also, both had hammers with firing pins (no transfer bar). Lock-up was tight for both, I didn't really check the timing, a few light scratches, wood grips still in good shape.

That's about as best as I can describe them without pictures (not yet an option...no digital camera). Can anybody help identify model numbers or manufacturing dates or any other useful information?

Thanks in advance...
 
If made after 1957 or so, the model number will be stamped in the crane cut. Open the cylinder, and look on the flat under the barrel.

If older than 1957 (a tip off is the halfmoon front sight), they didn't have Model numbers. They had names.

From your description, it sounds like they were both Military and Police Hand Ejectors, later known as the Model 10.

If they had adjustable rear sights, then they were probably Model 14s, AKA Combat Masterpieces.

Dates of manufacture can only be determined from the serial number.
 
Sounds like the Military & Police, a.k.a. the Model 10.

Excellent revolvers...still the benchmark for .38 Special wheelguns, and never surpassed, IMHO.
 
Yep, I agree. Sounds like Model of 1905 4th change, AKA S&W M&P, AKA Pre-Model 10.

Buy the 2 incher quick if it checks out using Jim March's Revolver Checkout, if it does not appear to be cut down, and the price is under $250. The snubbies are hard to come by.

Here are a couple of pics that might help you specify. Note the slight difference in the front sight, ejector rod, and the hammer pin through the frame on the M&P.
Smithandwessonmilitarypolicestag.jpg

Model of 1905 4th change

bothModel10-5s.jpg

Model 10's​
 
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