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07-08-2018, 04:48 PM
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age of top break revolver
I have a S&W top break revolver I would like to get some information on. Such as model and year of manufacture. It is hamerless and has a grip safety. It holds five rounds of S&W 38. The serial number on the botton of the grip is 161xxx. the barrell is 3 1/4 inches. Marking on the gun is the S&W trademark and the barrell says 38 S. & W. CTG. The top of the barrell has pat. dates of Oct. 1883 Aug 1885 april 1889. I have had it about 45 years and got it from my father. Thanks for your help.
Last edited by d277; 07-08-2018 at 05:00 PM.
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07-08-2018, 05:57 PM
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I'm not an expert, but I have the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson 4th Edition for reference.
I believe you have a .38 Safety Hammerless 4th Model. According to SCSW, the serial number for this model ranges from 116003 to roughly 220000. Your father's revolver falls in this range. About 104,000 of the 4th Model were manufactured between 1898 and 1907.
Carefully remove the right grip panel. It should/may be marked with the serial number.
I would probably not use modern smokeless powder cartridges in your firearm, although it may be on the borderline.
Last edited by Inusuit; 07-08-2018 at 05:59 PM.
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07-08-2018, 06:06 PM
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Appears to be a 4th Model. Shipped prior to 1907. Known as New Departure or Safety Hammerless. Fun to shoot. Value, not a clue.
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Mike 2796
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07-08-2018, 07:15 PM
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Thanks, I will check under the grip. I last shot this gun in about 1974 or so and it did very well. I should still have some ammo for it in the ammo safe, I will have to check. Dad joined the police dept. after he got out of the service from fighting in the Pacific during WWll and was a police officer all his life. I have no idea where he got it. I was a police officer but I am 69 and retired.My youngest son is now a police officer. In the 40's, 50's, and 60's when dad was a police officer some depts. did not even have a property room. I don't know if it came down in the family or if it came from the job. Thanks for in information.
Last edited by d277; 07-08-2018 at 07:25 PM.
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07-08-2018, 08:13 PM
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Welcome to the Forum. That 38 Safety most likely shipped in 1903.
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Gary
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07-08-2018, 09:28 PM
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Welcome aboard, d277. Stick around, you'll like it here.
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Oh well, what the hell.
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07-08-2018, 10:58 PM
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The gun is neat, but three generations of law enforcement is amazing thanks for all of your service! Welcome to the forum !
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Randy
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07-09-2018, 05:48 AM
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Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass!
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Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629
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