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02-05-2015, 06:19 PM
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S vs N prefix?
Sorry if this is "dead horse" territory but can someone sum up why S prefix is superior?
Seems like the S's average around a $300 premium?
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02-05-2015, 06:29 PM
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Superior in price? If there is any, it is only because the S-series is older (both K-frames and N-frames) - from the immediate post-WWII era. N-series came later, N-frames only.
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02-05-2015, 06:41 PM
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It is dependent on condition and other factors. The S prefix N frames spanned the 5-, 4- and 3-screw eras, and you also have to allow for the scarcity of the gun itself.
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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220
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02-05-2015, 10:30 PM
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At least with the ones I own, there seems to be a little better quality. Bluing is a little better. Fit and finish also a little better.
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02-06-2015, 12:16 AM
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The "S" guns bring a few desirable things to the table. Diamond Magnas that number to the gun (if you're lucky enough to have one that still has the originals), fit and finish is a touch better (IMO), as stated above, they are older. As with my 28-2, what's not to like about a 49 year old gun, especially a 49 year old S&W.
There's my 2 cents worth. 
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SFC, US Army, Retired
Last edited by gunny4053; 02-06-2015 at 12:17 AM.
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02-06-2015, 09:21 AM
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I wonder how much difference between a later S vs my (recently sold  ), super early N...my serial # was N12
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Jim
Last edited by Boogsawaste; 02-06-2015 at 10:04 AM.
Reason: Spelling
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02-06-2015, 10:43 AM
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The price spread has gone up if it's now a $300 difference between the two because 5 years ago the spread was $100 for guns in similar condition.
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02-06-2015, 03:26 PM
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Folks seem to think the quality at Smith & Wesson started declining in the 70s. That is about the same time the serial number system changed. Personally, I don't think there is much of a difference.
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Even older, even crankier....
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02-06-2015, 04:31 PM
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"S" means SUPER NICE, and "N" means NICE.
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