S&W 27-2 arrived! Help on mismatched SN's?

[Chilidog]

Alright, I'm not a collector - I buy them to shoot and keep. Yesterday I picked up the 27-2 ( bought at aution on internet) and on examination noted that the SN on frame was a 5 digit 4xxxx number, not matching the 6 digit SN 49xxxx on the crane when the cylinder is open. The 5 digit # is also on the frame handle when grips removed. Am I missing something or do I have a pieced together gun with "new" cylinder on an "old" frame? Otherwise lock up is tight, timing appears good, condition excellent, as advertised. I'd just be PO'd if seller did not advise if gun was made up of parts. Thanks for your input in advance.
Goog shootin',
dog

 

[James K]

The number on the crane and on the frame where the crane fits is an assembly number. The frame and crane are so closely fitted that they must be finished together and kept together in final assembly; this is what the assembly number does.

The other numbers are the true serial number; S&W puts it several places so if a bad guy grinds off one, the others will still be around to trace the gun.

Jim

 

[Radicalcleric]

The M27-2 was made between 1961 and 1981 and should have a serial number with a letter S (1961-1969) or N (1970-1981) prefix. The serial number should be stamped on the butt (hidden by target grips) and on the frame under the cylinder crane. It is not unusual for there to be other numbers, as well. These are assembly numbers used in the factory. But the serial number on your gun should start with an S or an N.