Smith And Wesson Revolver - Serial Numbers Database [extra Quality]

These small-frame revolvers are among the most common. S&W used a mix of pure numeric and letter-prefix serial numbers throughout the 20th century.

The Ultimate Guide to Smith & Wesson Revolver Serial Numbers Database

The primary serial number is usually stamped on the bottom of the grip frame. You may need to remove the grips (stocks) to see it.

For collectors, historians, law enforcement officers, and firearm enthusiasts, few names carry as much weight as Smith & Wesson. Since 1852, the company has been a titan of American firearm manufacturing, producing legendary revolvers like the Model 10 (the "Military & Police"), the .357 Magnum, the Model 29 (made famous by Clint Eastwood's Dirty Harry ), and the Model 60 Chief’s Special.

When you swing the cylinder out, you may see a model number (e.g., "MOD 10-5") or assembly numbers. Assembly numbers are temporary codes used during manufacturing and are not unique identifiers. Inside the Frame: smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database

S&W revolvers have undergone several changes in their serial numbering system over the years. Here's a brief overview:

Following the Gun Control Act of 1968, serial numbers became more standardized, often featuring a letter followed by 5 or 6 digits (e.g., "K" for K-frames).

From the mid-19th century up until the 1940s, S&W numbered its revolvers sequentially by model type, using up to six digits. Because different models shared overlapping numeric sequences, a serial number like 45122 could simultaneously exist on an early .32 Hand Ejector and a .38 Double Action. During this era, identifying the specific frame size and model name is required before the number can be accurately dated. 2. The Post-WWII to 1980s Era (Single-Letter Prefixes)

The detective's quest had only just begun, but with the help of Alex's incredible database, he was one step closer to unraveling the secrets of the stolen Smith & Wesson revolver. These small-frame revolvers are among the most common

If you are looking for a quick, approximate date for a modern or mid-century S&W revolver, here are some reference points:

The system started at AAA and moves sequentially through the alphabet. For example, an "AAF" prefix is older than an "NXX" prefix. Smith & Wesson Serial Number Lookup & Dating Chronology

Serial numbers were almost entirely numeric, often consisting of 4 to 6 digits.

: On almost all revolvers, the true serial number is stamped on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt). If you have target grips installed, you may need to remove them to see it. You may need to remove the grips (stocks) to see it

Firearm laws and serial number regulations vary by jurisdiction. This article is for educational and historical research purposes. Always verify the legal status of any firearm with local and federal authorities. The author and publisher do not provide legal advice.

On pre-1957 models, the number on the yoke is often an assembly number, not the serial number. Rely on the butt.

Production restarted after WWII, often starting near serial #1 for new models. 1952: Serial numbers in the 7,000–21,000 range. 1962: Serial numbers starting around 295,000.