Author Topic: buddies got this old smith ???? (Read 952 times)

shaner · « **on:** March 08, 2005, 03:21:20 PM »

its a old M&P is all we can come up with 2in similiar to a model 10 but way different grip , no model numbers , so we were told the model numbers started in the early 50's anyone have a clue?

Washita · « **Reply #1 on:** March 10, 2005, 05:34:34 PM »

S&W started selling guns by model number in 1957. I believe they used them internally much earlier.

shaner · « **Reply #2 on:** March 11, 2005, 12:51:28 AM »

thats what we found , internally? as inside completely? is got a feel numbers inside the frame ,but they dont make sense , 4596 is in it?

HappyHunter · « **Reply #3 on:** March 11, 2005, 01:04:02 AM »

The Serial number will be marked on several places on gun.

Easiest may be the bottom of barrel when cylinder is open, also bottom of grip, also on yoke, also on rear of cylinder above charge hole and inside of ejector star, also on rear of yoke visable with a light thru charge hole.

If you give the complete serial number, substituting x for each of the last 2 digits we may be able to help with age of gun. Example: K1234XX.

shaner · « **Reply #4 on:** March 11, 2005, 03:05:14 PM »

serC911XX

HappyHunter · « **Reply #5 on:** March 12, 2005, 02:38:50 AM »

shaner,

Serial number puts it as first year that C prefix was used or 1948.

Looking over your post you never mentioned caliber...is this a 38 special, a 38 S&W or a 22lr?

Is this a steel frame or aluminum?

The C prefix serial number was used on the following:

Pre model 10, in 38 special. (most likely, "old M&P" as you suggested).

Pre model 11, in 38 S&W.

Pre model 12, in 38 special with airwieght alum frame.

Pre model 45, in 22 lr.

Let me know which you have and I may have more info on your gun.

HTH

Fred

shaner · « **Reply #6 on:** March 12, 2005, 11:40:33 AM »

yep its steel yep its 38 spl and i think yu have it as a pre model 10

HappyHunter · « **Reply #7 on:** March 12, 2005, 12:50:26 PM »

The value of you gun will range from about 100 in poor condition to nearly $400 for a NIB. It is a common but a great gun. The fact that it is 1948 and still ticking shows the quality of S&W. If this is a family hand me down the sentimental value is another factor.

I would never shoot +P loads in this gun and stick to lead bullets that are 148-158 grain.

The fixed gun sights are regulated to 158 grain ammo. You will find that a 148 grain wadcutter bullet (used primarily for target shooting) will shoot like a dream in this gun.

Hope your friend enjoys his "new" gun.

hth

Fred