Finally picked up my ideal model 10 esque revolver and was hoping for a more exact date on it.

No model number behind the yoke
.38 spl hand-ejector 4-screw
C 381345
4" taper barrel fixed sights



Also currious whether this revolver can handle the occasional use of factory +p ammo- such as the Remington 158gr lswc-hp or 135gr Gold dots that I carry in my 642.

Thanks all.

You have a C-prefix M&P, sometimes referred to as a pre-Model 10, from around 1956 or so, extrapolating from other lettered serials I've come across. Someone else might have a closer idea for a date. The photo is a bit out of focus, but it looks to be in nice condition, with just some holster wear at the muzzle visible.
I'm sure you know the grips are not standard.

C 381345 would have very likely shipped sometime in 1956, probably past mid-year. Collectors would call it a pre-Model 10 M&P. It will certainly handle +P ammo with no safety problems, but there are very few good reasons for ever doing that.

I agree with the 1956 date.

I think there is a good chance those plastic stocks were made by Franzite. If so, they will have the name molded into the inside.

__________________
Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Thanks all.
1956, pretty neat.
I wasn't sure what year the model 10 designation was attached to these, I think it's cool though that it's a pre-model 10. Thanks for the info.

As to the +P ammo- I'll put a cylinder full through just to check poa/poi, and after that it'll probably only see target loads.

I did know the grips weren't original, and I'm not real fond of the plastic feel, but I kind of like the color. Might look into some bone or antler grips, but probably just stick to wood.
The writing on the inside of the grip is backwards- looks like whoever made the mold forgot to compensate. Reading right to left it says "FITWELL BY MARWYN" though the A looks like an H with a line connecting the tops of the uprights.

It is in very nice shape. There is bluing wear at the muzzle, as well as many of the edges and high points. The ejector rod is probably the roughest part on the gun and even it just has a bit of patina developing.
Not bad considering that I got it and 100rds of Winchester 130gr FMJ's for $280.
I love the weight and balance of this gun. I'm a terrible judge of light weights, but it really doesn't feel that much heavier than my 642.
I'm rather looking forward to my next range trip.

"I wasn't sure what year the model 10 designation was attached to these"

Allegedly, the first marked M10 was at about SN C438000, shipped around mid-1958. $280 for any K-frame in reasonably good condition is not bad, whether or not there is any ammo thrown into the deal. You can pick up correct grips from eBay fairly cheaply if you wish.