Picked up what I believe is a Pre-War M&P yesterday at the gun show, the serial number is 629607, the serial number letters are small as they are in pre-war guns, it is a 4", .38 Special, and is marked on the rear grip frame "M.P.D. 7". I have seen other revolvers with similar markings attributed to the Memphis Police Department. I am pretty excited about this revolver, as it is my first pre-war. Here's some pics:





So, I was wondering if you could help me with these questions:

Do the "M.P.D.7" marking look like Memphis Police to you, if not, any hints as to what agency used this revolver? I know the definitive answer would have to come with a factory letter, but hopefully someone out there has seen similar markings.

The grips appear to be post war, what grips should I look for to find an original set?

What year was this revolver manufactured?

I'll be taking this revolver to the range tomorrow to see how she shoots.

Thanks,

Canoeguy

I'd say very late 1930, maybe 1931, or even 1932. The silver
medallion grips would be the right period.

Later, Mike Priwer

Thanks, Mike!

1931 would definetely make it the oldest Smith and Wesson I own by ten years.

Took it to the range today and shot it with some mild cast lead handloads, 158 grain lead round nose. The revolver shoots good, I was able to keep all hits in the black of a 25 yard slow fire pistol target, shooting with a two hand hold at 15 yards. That is a 3 1/2 inch aiming black. Sights were regulated dead on, so this old girl can still dance!

I'll keep my eyes peeled for a set of original grips to put it back to original condition.

Anyone have any thoughts about the "M.P.D." marking?

No - M P D does not mean anything to me. If you are in the Memphis
area, its entirely possible that it is a Memphis PD gun - only because
its not uncommon to find LEO guns staying in the same area. If the
gun were the personal property of an officer, and he kept it after
retirement, and then only recently it was sold by his family, then
that is one way for it to stay in the area.

Later, Mike Priwer