noI just purchased a nice S&W (I'm 99% sure it's a 38/44) no model # on the crane just an N, serial# on the butt S1546xx. It is defiantly an N frame gun as I have other N's . The guy sold it to me said it was a model 10 but no way, didn't want to correct him because I paid a model 10 price. Inside the crane is 71467 7. Do I have a 38/44?

Is there a shroud on the barrel for the extractor? Sounds like it. Would love to see pics. Welcome to the forum.

I'd buy HDs at M10 prices all week ! Congrats !

Larry

If it is a fixed sight N frame it sounds like a 38/44 Heavy Duty from 1956.
Just before they started using model numbers
One of the mods should move this to the 1896 to 1961 section.
Welcome to the forum.

I have on my list S1545xx which shipped in 11/56. The caliber stamping on the barrel will be .38 S&W Special. It would be a Heavy Duty if it has fixed sights, or an Outdoorsman with adjustable sights. You may wish to check if the chambers have been bored deeper to accept .357 Magnum cartridges.