Good evening....could use some decoding help and from what I've been reading this is definitely the place. So, i just traded and received a mod 10, no dash, 6" barrel with serial number C469174. Any help dating this? The bluing is about 95 percent and the wood is phenomenal (all original). I appreciate any help....ill see if i can post a pic or two....

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Welcome to the Forum.
That's a nice M&P. The Catalog puts it's DOB sometime in 1960.
Jim

Thanks Jim! I'm new to revolvers and am still learning the dash system and the mods that they are associated with. Also, the 4 and 5 screw deal has me a little confused. I really like this gun. The name of the original owner (a cop that this was issued to) is engraved nicely on the backstrap. It brings the overall value down, but it adds to the vintage feel... love it. Is the 6" barrel a little more scarce than other lengths? Ive been looking and havent come across many. Thanks again!!

If you want to know about S&W revolvers this is the place to be. I would suggest picking up a copy of The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas. That's where we get a lot of our information, and it will explain all of the details of your fine revolver.
Jim

Yours should be a Model 10-1 four screw, if I'm reading the book correctly. This should be easily verified by 1) opening the cylinder and confirming that "Mod 10-1" is stamped on the frame and 2) inspecting the front (outside) of the trigger guard and verifying the presence of the "fourth screw".

Here is a thread that gives chapter and verse on the 5-, 4-, and 3-screw variations. The Gun FAQs

I do not think the 6" is rare, but I do believe the 4" is more common. That's my two cents, but someone here may be able to give you production numbers on the two.

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You're shy a few manners.

Much appreciated! it is definitely a 4 screw. However, there is no dash on the stamp under the cylinder. It simply says "mod 10".... i appreciate the link to the screw FAQ page, it cleared up that confusion right quick!