I just came upon a .32 Safety hammerless with what looks like plastic original grips. It is N/P and in excellent condition. Ser# 1110XX.

I have seen discussion of First Model, Third Model etc. What is the difference between the models? Which model would mine be and how old?


TIA, Joe

I believe that it is a 2nd model in the 1902-1909 range.

Joe, Just to get you a start on the info you are looking for, be aware that the "First Model" designation, and subsesquent designations, are collector artifices. These designations were'nt used by S&W. The 1st model ended about sn 91,500 in the year 1900. Yours is probably a 2d model manufactured after 1900. The big change, to my untrained eyes, is the cylinder latch changed. Later the front sight went from pinned to unpinned. Anyway, you have to look to 2d or 3d model info to get an approximate date, value, production numbers and whatever. Not much, but hope it helps. Ray

Pred & Rayj, thanks ever so much for the information. This will get me started on researching my new find.

Joe