Hi guys,

Once again I have an old .38 in front of me (what can I say, like early pocket autos I've a weakness for old 'cop' revolvers) in about 85% condition. Seems a fairly basic 4" blue example of the M&P 4th change, square butt. A good solid shooter with a tight lockup and no major cosmetic issues, minus a scratch some genius managed to put on the inside of the crane of all places. Nothing indicates a refinish, although the grips are of the much later non-diamond variety and incorrect for the period.

Serial number is 864XXX so I know it's a later one, but was wondering if anybody might be able to help pin down a closer approximate date?

As always, thanks guys!

I would guess late 1941 or early 1942. Someone who knows more than I do can pin it down a little better.

864xxx would put its likely shipment as being sometime in late 1941. 1942 is possible, but I show none on my list with SNs that low as shipping in 1942.

As always, you guys are awesome, here I was guessing late '42/early '43!

Is it .38 S&W or .38 Special. That time frame was pretty much taken up making Victory revolvers for WWII. A lot of them were British Service Revolvers in .38 S&W.

Never mind. I see it in your title.

__________________
Guy
SWHF #474 SWCA LM#2629

Sort of ironically, I was looking for a .38/200 when I found this poor thing covered in dust in the corner of a dirty glass counter, and wearing the ugliest set of home-whittled plywood grips I ever saw. But the fit, finish, and action were tight, and the price was right, so it's joined my "home for wayward guns" set. Threw some rough old PC Magnas I had on her and she shoots like a champ for plinking; I can't imagine feeling unarmed with some good LSWCs loaded up either.