Guys, I'm new here, and wondering if you can tell me a date of manufacture for a 686, (no dash) 6 inch barreled 357 magnum. Serial # ABS55**. Smith and Wesson trade mark is located on the left side of the pistol, just below the thumbpiece. Has 3 screws in the main frame. I've had it for about 12 years now, and bought it for 400 dollars from a local gun dealer. Has always been a real shooter, and after joining and seeing all the other post on dating these pistols, it's peaked my interest. Thanks in advance.

My 4th edition of the SCSW doesn't list a serial # starting with ABS.

I should but I don't have the catalog but I will guess late 1982-83. Mine is ACK & if I remember it's from 1984.

It's a 1983 gun.