I picked up a model 10 that was in need of a new barrel (cracked forcing cone) to fix up as a shooter.
But after I cleaned it off , I noticed that it was laser etched entirely by Smith no roll stamping at all and all barrel info was on the right side leaving the left side blank (the S&W logo and cartridge info).
there was also a serial number under the cylinder on the left side just above the trigger and none on the butt. Though there was a serial number etched under the grip on the left side on the forward strap.
I tried researching the serial number CEY1885 , but could not find the serial number had ever been used , but the range did put in around the 1997 area. and it had that goofy MIM trigger and hammer.
My question is was this normal , or was it some sort of special edition or test gun ?
Should I go ahead fix it as planned or leave it as is and offer it up to a collecter ?
Thanks for any help