pre model 10 snubbie help

[Sharps-Nut]

    I am trying to help with pre model 10 2 inch barrel smith. Was needing help with both id, what year produced,and what rounds are safe to shoot in it.  The gun appears very solid, some bluing wear from carry, locks up solid, even gap around the crane and frame,no evidence of timing issues, end shake or the like.     My concern is the barrel is marked 38 S&W special ctg. Looks like a model 10 for the most part and would guess m&p pre 10.  If I get the serial number is it possible to date the gun.  Also is it safe to shoot and what hand loading of 38 would be safe to shoot.   158 grain cast lead bullet would be the projectile  Any help appreciated.  SN

[Mohawk]

  Is it marked model 10 under the crane?

[Sharps-Nut]

No, it is marked W up high on the crane then 30363 below that.  The cylinder and butt of the gun bear the  number 272XX with the butt having the letter c marked prior to the serieal number.  Any help with id and date would be appreciated.  SN

[Shaylex]

C272XX would have been manufactured in 1948 according to the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson. Got any pictures to show? Sounds like a nice one.

[Sharps-Nut]

I could likely get it and photo it but could not post it.   This is the unfortunate rule of my place of work, and I am to cheap to pay for the net  at home.  The gun has blueing wear on two spots 180 degrees out on the cylinder and the top strap blue is worn but the rest is very good.  The outer read right grip is pretty dinged up from being banged around during its service life.  The gun was recently purchased for 300.00 by a freind who was seeking information.   I thought that to be a pretty heftly price for a used snubby showing blueing and grip wear.  Now seeing your dated age it would be honest wear and maybe he did ok?   The age also makes me think the gun shoud be fired with light loads only.    Thanks for your info, pm me and i can email pics.  SN