Last nite I picked up my new to me Model 19-3 serial # 9K16488. Like new in box w/ papers. Doesn't have the diamond cut insert stocks. All I can find is after 1968 and pre-1976? Born on date??
My book shows 9K1001-9K99999 is all 1976. Not before, not after, but 1976.
If it's like new and in the box with the papers and goodies, maybe you can justify the $50 for a Roy Jinks letter? I find the letter to be fascinating, not for the specific date quite so much, but especially for the part where he tells you where Smith & Wesson shipped the gun. I think that is really very cool.
I have what I think is a S&W Model 19 .357 with a 2 1/2 barrel that I bought second hand in the mid 70's. Serial # 5K721XX. Can you tell me if it is a Model 19?
Serial number says it is a 1973 build date. For a gun of that vintage, the model number should be stamped on the frame where the yoke (which holds the cylinder and swings out) meets the frame when the cylinder is closed.
Okay, thanks! I can see now where it says "Mod 19-3" So, I guess it is a 3 inch model. I don't get how it is a 3" since I've measured it several times and never even come close to 3". More like 2 3/8" actual.
Haha, no, the dash-3 does not reference barrel length. The dash-3 denotes an engineering change where S&W elected to call it a slightly different version than the previous version.
Engineering changes (dash numbers as we call them) simply do NOT fit any rigid system, S&W tends to change them when they wish and often not following precedent. Sometimes it is a head-scratcher. However, if you know a particular gun is a "model 19-3" then there are certain things associated with 19-3's that you can count on being evident on the revolver in question.
Barrel length? Measure from the muzzle to the rearmost barrel that comes through the frame and meets the cylinder, that is your barrel length. 2.5" was available on the 19-3.
It's a Combat Masterpiece. Model 15-3 serial number K877923. Anybody here tell me old it is? Came with the box. Looks to have lots of holster wear. It's tight and the trigger is nice and smooth on the DA really crisp on the SA
This was purchased with the original box and the paperwork, cleaning kit, and wax paper the gun was wrapped in when new.
The blueing is near flawless, no noticeable wear marks or scratches. It has a slight drag line from the cylinder but I cannot tell that it was ever fired. The square butt grips show no wear. This one is super clean. I don't know if it is I titled to the term "mint" but it's really close.
I am looking for manufacture date as well as approximate value. I am going to entertain selling it if I can make a few bucks. Thanks in advance.