I have a Model 64-6 that has all of the inscriptions done with laser etching, including the serial numbers. The numbers are also in an odd location, left side of frame under the cylinder opening, left side of frame under the grip, no number on butt of frame where normally found, inside frame opening covered by crane when closed ( where model number is found).
I have been away from Smith revolvers for some time and this form and location of numbering is new to me. I have observed the markings on newer revolvers and they had the old style roll engraving.
Just curious.

In the 2000 - 2002 time frame S&W mark large numbers of their revolves in that fashion. Then ceased the practice. No one is really sure why.

What's your gun's serial number?

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~ S&W aficionado in training ~

CET2226, it is one that I bought from the last SOG offerings and in near new condition. Shoots ragged hole groups at ten yards but about 2” High.

I "believe" the practice may have started with the model 64 NY-1 contract guns so that the rubber stocks did not have to be removed to view the serial number. (Or have a hole cut in their bottoms to see the grip frame, a perfect place for crud to accumulate). Target sighted S & Ws have the SN in the yoke recess but they probably didn't want to have to open the action to see the SN either.

I seem to recall the etching was so shallow early on that the SN could be removed with a vigorous cleaning, which eventually led to a mandate about the depth of the markings. The factory eventually decided to stick to doing things the way that worked for the prior 140 years or so .

Depending on what ammo you are using (and for what load the sights were regulated, perhaps Speer Gold Dot?), it may print away from the sight picture.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Try standard velocity .38 Special 158 gr. ammo at the same distance and see how if this helps.

Good luck,

Dave

That would of shipped in......

March - April 2001.

So it's from that era when revolvers were so marked. Many L and N-frames were also marked; guns that obviously had no connection to the law enforcement.

I'm not doubting the reasons why the practice may of started. I just wanted to clarify that it carried over to non-LEO guns on a broad bases.

If the OP has the ability to post pictures he should do so. In particular, I'd like to see how the s/n is displayed on the grip frame. The one below the cylinder window is easy to see.

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~ S&W aficionado in training ~

I have seen revolvers with the SN on the left frame and no stamping on the bottom of the grip frame - one of those exceptions to the "always on the bottom of the grip frame" rules, aside from Regulation Police and .22/32 Target revolvers.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Thanks for all the info, unfortunately my “computer” consists of an I pad and I am not sophisticated to display photos. The etching on my 64 is very light and the barrel must be turned to the light just right to see it, the S/N is displayed better (deeper). It is a lousy marking system as the caliber designation is almost gone already.
As far as where the pistol is hitting, 2” High is ok as this is just a plinking pistol, my 66 is dead on with my hand loads and I choose not to spend big $ on 25 performance loads from the many makers. I do’s still have a half dozen boxes of Win 125 gr silvertip left over from LE days but rarely carry a revolver for self defense.