Is there a reference/guide to the various markings that can be found on S&W pistols? Thanks!

I assume you are referring to marks applied during manufacture such as fitters and inspectors marks, assembly numbers, etc. and not external marking such as the S&W logo, caliber, etc. There may be some explanation of these marks in the fourth edition of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson by Supica and Nahas, but I have not specifically looked for this information in their book.

Bill

Thanks for the reply. I will check it out. I was also talking about markings that are used to indicate if a revolver has been sent back for work, for refinishing, etc. When looking at pictures of old revolvers for sale they often show the frame under the stocks. When there are markings there, I don't always have a way of knowing what they mean.

I don't know if the SCS&W addresses your question or not. Revolvers sent back to S&W for various repairs or refinish often have a date (month and year, 6 62 for example) stamped on the grip frame. The refinish or change of finish to nickel is identified by an R-N inside of a rectangle. A B followed by a diamond stamped in various places indicates a refinish in bright blue. The problem with refinish and repair markings is S&W was not consistent in their application. Each gun has to be evaluated on its own merits.

Bill

Jim (Hondo44) put together a post going through various frame markings. Here you go:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/140319079-post25.html

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SWCA #3356, SWHF#611

Found this post using search. Very helpful, thank you.