I have what I believe is a M & P .38, 5-inch barrel. What gives with the numbers? The crane and frame behind the crane are stamped with five digit numbers that match. The underside of the barrel (beneath the ejector rod) and the bottom grip strap are stamped with matching numbers also, but these are a six-digit number, starting 313XXX. The barrel number is preceded with "B."

Which numbers are the serial numbers, and is anyone able to offer a manufacturing date based on these numbers? What is the formal model name of this revolver, Model 10 or Military and Police,or ??? Is the model name marked at a hidden place?

Thanks.

The ones on the bottom of the grip and the barrel are the serial numbers, all others are factory assembly numbers.

Not sure on the age, but yours wold be a "Military & Police" which in 1957 was renamed the Model 10.

It is most likely a 1905 4th change M&P. Mine has a serial # 2999xx. It left Smith & Wesson in June of 1919. I would guess yours to be later that year, or early 1920. They are good shooters! Enjoy it! Bob

The "B" under the barrel means the gun was finished in Blue when it left S&W. Ed #15

Thanks for the good information.

OK, so what exactly is an "assembly number"?

Well.... the yoke (that's what S&W calls the crane) and side plate were hand-fitted to the frames prior to the final polishing and blueing (or nickel plating). The 'assembly' numbers were stamped onto those three major components after they were fitted (to the frame) so they could be matched up when they got to the assembler's work bench. The serial number would have been stamped on the butt after those three major components were fitted.

Mark

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