I'm looking for a .45 revolver for bullseye competition. I have a C&R FFL and am trying to figure out this serial # and year of manufacture stuff. Could somebody tell me what serial # range would be for 1969 or earlier for models 25, 25-1, 25-2? It can be .45 ACP/AR or .45 Long Colt.
Since I live in Commiefornia, the only new one legal for purchase is the 25-15, 45LC, SKU 150256A. Not sure what the "A" means. Is there any disadvantage to this new model over a C&R gun?
If you want a 1955 45 Target revolver that is C&R qualified, you need to find one in the S285000 range or lower. There may be some 25-2s in the S300000 range that were shipped in 1969, but probably later in the year than early April.
Below are a couple pics of my Model 25-2, "45 Cal Model of 1955" in .45 ACP (uses full or half moon clips, or your fingernails for extraction). A real joy to shoot and in 3T dress (Target trigger, hammer, sights) she's a beauty too.
Mine with s/n N 245XX, Letters as shipping Valentines Day 1972, so another few years until C&R status. I'm posting both pages of the Letter of Authenticity so you can read some of the fascinating info about the Model 25-2 and its origins and it's successors. The Letters are researched and signed by Mr. Roy Jinks, S & W Historian and author and I believe that the only two persons who may know more than Roy about S &W are Horace Smith and Dan Wesson who died many moons ago.
About the new ones I don't know simply because I've not ever looked into them, but the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 4th Edition has very good information on just about all S & W's and pages of serial number/year relationships.
The only thing I'm guessing about the new ones is that it would probably come with the infamous Internal Lock (which bugs the daylights out of some on this Forum) and I've heard the bluing process is not the same as "the old days".
If you are new to S&W firearms you might consider grabbing a copy of SCSW 4th....if anything it is tremendous reading, and we will gladly help you spend your money on just about anything S&W.
Good luck with your search, keep looking at all sources...they are out there...and as said..........a real treat to shoot and own.
According to Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 4th Edition, any serial number below S330000 would fall into the 1968 or earlier dates. The S prefix ended in 1970, so in one more year all S prefix guns will be C&R eligible. Or you could look for a "Pre-25" (no model stamped on yoke) and eliminate all doubt. I picked this one up for a very reasonable price last July. The stocks on it are newer than the gun, but they work just fine.
Thanks to everyone for the feedback. This will help me in looking for my 25.
What is so bad about the internal lock?
1. There have been reports that the internal lock (hereafter called IL) locked itself from supposed recoil. In a target revolver, the worst thing would be an alibi for that leg of the match. In the event of a defensive use it would be a bit worse.
2. The IL was put in place due to political pressure during the Clinton administration, thus the lock is often referred to as the "Hillary Hole". Many look upon the IL as just another anti-gun issue.
3. To us "old-timers", the introduction of the IL altered the graceful and beautiful appearance of all (well, at least most) S&W revolvers.
In a nutshell, the IL left a bad taste in the mouths of many. In reality, it probably does not make any difference in usefulness on the gun in question. For me personally, I do not like the appearance of the IL. (I'm on of those old-timers.) I'm sure any target that has a bunch of nice big .45 caliber holes in it will not know the difference.
I hope you get what you are looking for and enjoy it for many years to come.
Model 25 C&R help needed
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