I just traded for a model 581 no dash. I need to locate different grips for it, and I don't know what size frame the gun is. I also wonder if the gun is nickle or stainless. With the grips off, there is a large "N" on the left side, and an "S" inside a circle on the right.

Serial # AAP6081

I think this is my first post, so take it easy on me. Thanks, Joel

It is an L frame. The L grips are the same size as K frames.

It would be a nickel finish the SS version is the 681.

The M581 is an L-Frame. It has the same grip size as the K-Frame. It is probably nickle, as the Stainless version is the M681.
Jim

All true...with a serial number starting with AAP its an early one. Probably late 1982.

I got one. I like them with factory combats.

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God spelled backwards is dog.

Welcome to the Forum!

Ask all the questions you want. Most people here are friendly and helpful. The ones who aren't don't stay long.

I'm sure the large N means "nickel". I don't know what the circle S means. The factory used marks and codes that only had meaning during the manufacturing process and this may be one of them.

As others have said, any K Frame stocks (grips) will fit your L Frame M581. Be happy, you have one of the best .357s ever made, IMHO. By the way, does it have an "M" visible on the frame when you swing open the cylinder?

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You're shy a few manners.

I have two 581's, they're great guns and I'm a fixed sight revolver fanatic. I have a 586 and I love that too, but the 581's are more of a favorite for me.

I love the 581/681 variant of the 686 series.
Integral sights are where it's at in my book and I wish they came on more models.
As for the grips, I would highly recommend some Ahrends or Hogue wood. Doesn't break the bank and you get a nice quality.
Welcome and enjoy your gun, and we love pics around here.

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27-2, 66-1, 640 Pro, 10-5

There is no "M". I understand this has to do with a recall. Is that correct, and if so, how important is the fix? Thanks, Joel

There were some reports of these early guns (no dash and -1) binding up when firing certain brands of ammo. S&W came up with a modification (replacing the firing pin and firing pin bushing) to correct this problem. To this day, they will perform the mod for free, even paying the shipping both ways. They indicate that the mod has been performed by stamping an "M" on the frame inside the yoke.

From what I've read, this problem is very rare. Personally, if I owned one I would take it to the range and test it out. If there is no problem, I wouldn't bother about the mod. If I intended to use it for home defense, I would just be sure to practice with it enough to satisfy myself that it will function properly when the chips are down.

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You're shy a few manners.

Welcome. Congrats on the M581, and as others have said, nickel, not stainless. I have a M581 shipped in 1983, nickel. As to the question of the M stamp. I will send you a PM with the information on the recall. Both my M581, and M586 do not have the M stamp and I have never had a problem with either of them. There will be those you say you should send it in, and those that will say, if it isn't broke do not fix it. It is your decision. I have always felt that the M581 was the forgotten .357. Enjoy it, it is a great Smith.

581 is an L frame. L frames are made to take the same grip as a K frame. A 581 is carbon, so the finish is nickel. The 681 would be the stainless version of the 581.

The stainless brother of you 581.

My 681-1. Laser straight shooter and smooth.....

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Take your time..quickly.