I have a couple of what I believe to be Model 10's that were my Grandfather's. I think that they are prewar and was wondering if there was a model date buff on the forum?
Serial number of 621XXX No letter prefix, four screws in the sideplate, one in front of the trigger guard and one in front of the grip about one half inch up.
That would be called a Military & Police Model of 1905. The serial number would put its date in the early 1930s. In a sense this is the predecessor of the Model 10, but there were some engineering changes that took place before the configuration was established that the company began calling the Model 10 in 1957.
Thanks, I knew I could find it here. I am thinking about having it cut down for a CCW. I have another that is in better condition. It seems that my grandfather used this for an everyday sidearm, I'd like it to be a little shorter. Will this handle +P?
The S&W factory would advise you not to use +P in any Smith that is not model marked (generally considered to be 1957 and newer). Most members here will agree to avoid +Ps as well. One of our members, however, will tell you that +P ammo is now loaded to be safe in any firearm.
The shape of the butt has more to do with how well a handgun conceals than does the length of the barrel. That said, your revolver appears to have a 6" or 6 1/2" barrel. I would advise you to NOT cut that barrel and leave it as your granddaddy had it.
A small frame revolver with a 2"-3" barrel would suit your needs better and can be bought for a fairly reasonable amount.