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Old 07-01-2018, 12:53 PM
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Such wonderful responses and additional data to this thread. Thank you, all.
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Old 07-14-2018, 02:28 AM
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Arrow NEW POST, early pre-39 SN:1021 with prototype upper

A sight to behold ! Enjoy.

See thread here:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-w...#post140100140
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Old 07-15-2018, 06:36 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by NDFRC
So when do you think the nodash 39s went to the longer safety tang and the resulting left grip cutout? I think I have seen 4 digit M39s that have that feature earlier than my 4 digit, is that possible?
Supposedly it was around #2200.
That erroneous "2200" number has been around quite awhile and repeated frequently even though various corners of the S&W collector arenas have over the last five-to-10 years recognized higher serial number ranges for the "Pre-39," such as the below pictured S&W "Automatic 9mm," whose pedigree is established and which presently resides with this collector.



The present thought line is the SN 26xx+ range is likely at the top end of the Premmie's issued serial numbers, but this collector truly has no clue even though he'd love to learn, in time, that his is the final such Pre-39 produced.

To that end, precisely determining the breadth of the Pre-39 serial number range has for years been among this collectors highest goals, he having four Premmie's and multiple four-digit Model 39s.

The serial number sequences of those which this collector finds and, if possible, purchase are slowly but surely narrowing the gap. Four of the six Pre- and Model 39s presently en route to this collector's "39 Safe" bear numbers that help facilitate that end but do not definitively close that gap.

Hopefully, with The Good Lord's willing and Modern Medicine's facilitation, I'll be able to close out that search before kicking the bucket.

Nevertheless, one can see the future now:

Ol' DC is on his death bed whilst racing to him from halfway around the world is reputed "S&W Model 39 Serial Number 2614."

Finally reaching the medical facility where Ol' DC's leg is tensing for that final kick at a nearby bucket, the courier races through a labyrinth of confusing hospital hallways with S&W M39 No. 2614 in hand.

Finally reaching Ol' DC's closed-door patient room where dozens of friend and family have gathered awaiting Ol' DC's final flinch - all of whom all the while making like members on The Chicago Board of Trade's commodities floor, actively making and taking odds as to whether Ol' DC will see the S&W before making his final move - the courier knocks loudly on the door.

Walking through the now-opened door and expecting a somber mood from those inside, the courier couldn't help but be somewhat dumbfounded at the in-room commotion, someone nearby screaming, "$200 at 20-to-1!"

Walking through a crazed atmosphere well beyond belief, the gathered parted for the advancing courier as did the Red Sea for Moses - the advancing courier finally catching first sight of Ol' DC's death bed.

"What's with that falling bucket?" he asked no one in particular.

Later.

P.S. Addendum to Psalm 27:2; " . . . as each take shots in the knees with my S&W M&P 2 .40"
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Old 07-15-2018, 08:20 AM
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Prior to NOW seeing 2623, I had reported to BBGV that the Pre-39s are in the 1001 to 2605 (apx) range. ( I have 2605).

I'll amend that data to now include "up to" (appx) 2623.

As a personal opinion, I don't think that S&W woke up one morning and started to stamp model numbers. I'd venture to consider there are likely some overlapping serial numbers in the range, with and without the MODEL 39 designation ... similar to the end of the MODEL39 and the commencement of the MODEL 39-2 series .... I KNOW there are many overlaps that bounce both ways between the MODEL 39 and MODEL 39-2 some 1000 serial numbers ( or more ) as I cited in one of my prior posts here.

Thank you !
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Old 07-15-2018, 08:59 AM
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The highest pre 39 I've observed is 2624. The lowest Model 39 I've recorded is 1434, believe it or not. There was a batch of Model 39 pistols that shipped way out of sequence (1969-1970) and had very low SNs.
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Old 07-15-2018, 09:17 AM
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Originally Posted by model3sw View Post
Prior to NOW seeing 2623, I had reported to BBGV that the Pre-39s are in the 1001 to 2605 (apx) range. ( I have 2605).

I'll amend that data to now include "up to" (appx) 2623.

As a personal opinion, I don't think that S&W woke up one morning and started to stamp model numbers. I'd venture to consider there are likely some overlapping serial numbers in the range, with and without the MODEL 39 designation ... similar to the end of the MODEL39 and the commencement of the MODEL 39-2 series .... I KNOW there are many overlaps that bounce both ways between the MODEL 39 and MODEL 39-2 some 1000 serial numbers ( or more ) as I cited in one of my prior posts here.

Thank you !
You are most welcome, Sal.

Further, after having seen your contributions, I'm tickled pink we're finally starting to gain some traction on this subject.

As to your thought that S&W didn't one morning awake, etc., methinks one four-digit Model 39 in my collection will buttress your idea. Maybe even beyond your wildest expectations.

I'll post some pics of it in a couple-or-three hours and, of course, verbiage with it (rarely am I at a loss for written words, though I tend to "listen," which is distinct from "talk," for disdained in this quarter is a running mouth without stoppage)

Oh, BTW: Jesse Harpe . . . I visited his store more than a few times, starting long before I was allowed to drive . . . well, at least on public highways. AW Peterson's store in Eustis is another longtime dealer - gunsmith of considerable 19th Century historical note, too - that drew the attention of those with whom I rode. It remains in the Peterson family's ownership and I suspect most anyone who'd pick up the phone there could either vividly recall or immediately call someone else to the phone who could recall Harpe details.

Now, I'm gonna do some "shooting."

Later.
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Old 07-15-2018, 11:18 AM
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Cunningham's Law states "the best way to get the right answer on the internet is not to ask a question; it's to post the wrong answer."

Please note I used the words "supposedly" and "around" since very little about older S&Ws is definitive, particularly with S/N ranges and model variations. Also note I was referring to the safety/grip panel style change, not the pre-39 S/N range.

I'm not a collector in the lofty levels as many on here, but I try to help. What makes this forum great is the continuous learning process.

Does anyone have a pic of a pre-39 with the longer safety and grip panel cutout? Or a 39 with the short safety/no cutout?
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Old 07-15-2018, 11:36 AM
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The Model 39 was developed at the request of our military during WWII because the 1911 was determined as junk and the Joint Chiefs of Staff want a 9 mm ,9x19 luger round, that was much more effective in pistol fighting distances as it was faster and penetrated much better than that .45 caliber flying ash tray. Here you go:

Smith & Wesson Model 39 - Wikipedia
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Old 07-15-2018, 11:40 AM
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Quote:
The Model 39 was developed at the request of our military during WWII because the 1911 was determined as junk and the Joint Chiefs of Staff want a 9 mm ,9x19 luger round, that was much more effective in pistol fighting distances as it was faster and penetrated much better than that .45 caliber flying ash tray.
Wow! Are you intentionally trolling with the 3-4 provocative assertions in that statement?
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Old 07-15-2018, 11:44 AM
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Great info in this thread...
I stumbled up on this one in a pawn shop earlier this
year. Had not owned a 39 in near 30 years.
Had forgotten what a neat handgun they are.
Need to find the correct vintage mags.
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Old 07-17-2018, 09:51 PM
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Thank you for your service in our United States Air Force.

I am grateful to you for voluntarily surrendering many of the "Rights" about which far too many people today are clueless. You and your service brethren have kept my family safe and alive - as well as the ones who would bring down our system.

Sorry, I am rather passionate over what you folks do, appreciating such deeply and can quickly take the soapbox's top. Thus, I conclude this entirely unrelated topic, but not before conveying a for-real: Thank You, Sir.

Years ago I did exactly as you suggest yourself should do: buy a 39-2 because I didn't want to screw up a far prettier M39. Worked out unexpectedly well, too, for what is now my favorite-carry 39-2 is the most accurate "old" handgun in my possession - and I sight through iron when using it.

It isn't terribly ugly, but I doubt it'd win many "pretty" awards, either. It, me and other folks taking a shot (or five) have put down some remarkably tight patterns. for a pistol produced in the early 70's.

Nearly always one can find a 39-2 that others disdain because they don't want a gun that may have fired 250 or 500 rounds . . . a count that, realistically, is finally at that gun's break-in level.

Do I still lament an extra ding on the metal and negatively impacted grips because something's corner had heavily lay upon it at some inopportune moment. You can bet your sweet bippy.

And then it speaks to me, "Oh boy! We gotta go to the range again this week and be assured I'm still fine!"

And it is, every single time.

Again: Thanks, man.

Later.
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Old 07-22-2018, 12:53 AM
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Acquired today from member Bob Frielich (Tired Gunsmith) who purchased this new, in 1955. Shows only slight carry wear but otherwise, perfect. Thank you, Bob.

Sal Raimondi, Sr.
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Old 07-22-2018, 01:21 AM
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And thank you, Sal!! Nice find!!

Best Regards, Les
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Old 07-22-2018, 01:39 AM
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And thank you, Sal!! Nice find!!

Best Regards, Les
Les, the thanks is to Bob Frielich (tired gunsmith) as he chose me. I was amazed that he thought that much of me. I was humbled and honored to comply.

It's only mine for a short window in time until I have to pass it to the next care taker.

You're a good friend, Les. Thank you. Sal
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Old 07-28-2018, 12:32 PM
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Supposedly it was around #2200.
I have serial number 204x, 254x and 260x, still having the short safety lever and unrelieved left stock.
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Old 07-28-2018, 12:49 PM
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Default Short Safety Lever and Unrelieved left stock to SN: 2623

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That erroneous "2200" number has been around quite awhile and repeated frequently even though various corners of the S&W collector arenas have over the last five-to-10 years recognized higher serial number ranges for the "Pre-39," such as the below pictured S&W "Automatic 9mm," whose pedigree is established and which presently resides with this collector.



The present thought line is the SN 26xx+ range is likely at the top end of the Premmie's issued serial numbers, but this collector truly has no clue even though he'd love to learn, in time, that his is the final such Pre-39 produced.
Borrowing your photo of 2623 to add to current debate on short / long safety levers and unrelieved left stock.

We have proof the short safety lever and unrelieved left stock include the entire pre-39 series.

We are trying to determine at about what serial number in the MODEL 39 series was the safety lever lengthened.

I believe there were a few changes to the length and design of the safety lever within the Model 39 series.

Sal Raimondi
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Old 07-28-2018, 12:58 PM
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Here's a shot of my 39-2. I bought it new in early 1980, and it has never failed to go "bang" with any type of ammo I've fed it. Next to the Remington Model 51, it and the spinoff Model 52 target pistol have the most ergonomic grips of any pistols I've ever handled.

John



P.S. The "Dillon article" mentioned earlier in this thread was authored by me, and appeared in Dillon's Blue Press catalog/magazine some time ago. It is also a chapter in my book 101 Classic Firearms which is available from Dillon Precision using their toll-free number 1-800-223-4570, online at their website 101 Classic Firearms by John Marshall (40133): Misc: Books & DVDs , or from Amazon.
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Old 07-28-2018, 01:18 PM
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Does anyone recall seeing a pic of a S&W auto presented to Jack Webb,
"Dragnet" with sn 741?
The only presentation of an S&W to Jack Webb I recall was this one, when L.A. Chief W.H. Parker gave Webb his old badge #714 and gun used on "Dragnet." This was in 1966, and the gun looks to be a Model 36 Chief Special.

John

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Old 07-28-2018, 01:38 PM
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If 2623 may be the last pre-39, What is the lowest Mod-39? I love a good mystery.
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Old 07-28-2018, 01:43 PM
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If the front end transition is confusing the rear end transition to the Model 39-2 may be even more so. There are Model 39 marked pistols with A prefix serial numbers; there are Model 39-2 marked guns with no prefix and there are guns that started with a roll marked Model 39 that then had "- 2" manually stamped.
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Old 07-28-2018, 04:39 PM
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If 2623 may be the last pre-39, What is the lowest Mod-39? I love a good mystery.
2624 is the highest documented serial number pre-39 per Kevin Williams. DCW posted pix of 2623.
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Old 07-28-2018, 05:51 PM
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That is exactly what I stated, 2623 is the highest pre-39 found. Well my big lazy finger got in the way. Pls forgive I meant 2624. Oh pls. great one for a common mistake. Now what was the earliest mod-39?
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Old 07-28-2018, 07:09 PM
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Arrow Model 39 series anomalies

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That is exactly what I stated, 2623 is the highest pre-39 found. Well my big lazy finger got in the way. Pls forgive I meant 2624. Oh pls. great one for a common mistake. Now what was the earliest mod-39?
The lowest SN MODEL 39 is a project I don't think anyone has officially undertaken yet. Can't say for sure but for a guesstimate likely around SN 2650-ish. Wouldn't be odd to find overlaps both ways, e.g. earlier with MODEL 39 marking and later serial number without MODEL markings during this conversion period. I'd be most interested in seeing as many as possible between Serial numbers 2600 through 3500, should prove to be very interesting.

It wasn't like the factory woke up one morning to start model marking everything MODEL 39. There's always a transition period, when any change is implemented, that I find of particular interest.

IIRC Kevin has records or verification of a late shipment of very low serial numbers (that should be pre-39s) that were MODEL marked before being shipped many years later.

It's those charming inconsistencies that many collectors quest to seek out.

In all my years I found a few grail types including a steel frame double stack model Marked MODEL 39-2 (with the -2 in smaller character as if added later), in the 627xx range shipped to Camfour (large S&W Distributor) only a few miles, as the crow flies, from 2100 Roosevelt Ave., also well known to be "the" receiving warehouse for employee guns. 627xx is a double stack Steel frame and a Model 39, long extractor slide, in 1965, several years before the commercial model 39-2 (single stack), and model 59 (double stack) were publicly released.

See Post 7, 8, & 9 here: Model 39-2 steel frame

Then I found pre-39 SN: 1021 that came with an experimental slide and extractor assembly. See Here: early pre-39 with prototype upper

The other is a Model 39-2 (with the -2 added by hand) SN 109000 without the " A " prefix, NIB. (post #13 in this thread).

Kevin Williams has a few of this oddities as does EngineGuy49 and then the original 9mm (39) guru, Richard McMillan, has us all beat with his odd, unusual, 9mms, including a few X- prefix, tool room samples and a Hush Puppy factory mock-up, amongst others.
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Can you share that article with us ?
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Sal,

The article on the Model 39 from Dillon Press was written by our own "PALADIN85020", AKA John Marshall, who just posted a couple of posts up in this thread.

Best Regards, Les
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Borrowing your photo of 2623 to add to current debate on short / long safety levers and unrelieved left stock.

We have proof the short safety lever and unrelieved left stock include the entire pre-39 series.

We are trying to determine at about what serial number in the MODEL 39 series was the safety lever lengthened.

I believe there were a few changes to the length and design of the safety lever within the Model 39 series.

Sal Raimondi
My Model39, serial 7175, has the short safety lever.
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My Model39, serial 7175, has the short safety lever.
Could you please post a picture of 7175. I have 59xx and 67xx both having the long safety lever with cut out relief on the left stock.
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Could you please post a picture of 7175. I have 59xx and 67xx both having the long extractor lever with cut out relief on the left stock.
Sal - do you mean long safety lever? I'm confused.

I'd also like to see pictures of 7175. Thanks.
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Arrow with sole credit and thanks to Richard McMillan

The most significant research work on early 9mm and subsequent S&W pistols was executed by Richard McMillan in 2004 published in the S&WCA Journal, spring 2006. Richard's article was (then) and is still, now, a magnificent, ground-breaking labor of love for the S&W Autos.

In the past 14 years since the first print of Richard's work, there have been new developments that we should submit here for Richard to review and amended, as he is "the" original Model 39 guru. Richard helped me immensely in my early years of Model 39 collecting and still till this day provides pearls of wisdom from his ongoing quest for research.

Richard indicates that about about SN 8000 the short safety lever was replaced by the longer safety release lever. I believe that may have been a typographical error as new research cuts that serial number range down to approximately SN Range of 3000-4000. Or, it could be correct, as printed. Everyone needs to pitch in with data to affirm these (and other) changes.

Richard also shows some very low serial numbers he calls "reissues" that are model marked MODEL 39 (SN: 1917) and have the long release lever. Author Kevin Williams (IIRC) noted a small batch of very low (pre-39) serial numbers that shipped many years later with MODEL 39 stamped, prior to being shipped.

I also believe the flat follower magazine went away much earlier than Richard had previously thought. Also, there are several revisions or minor changes to the stamped steel, figure 8 magazines that should be researched further.

Also, in the photos of the magazines for the Model 52 and 52A, while the descriptions are impeccable, the two photos are reversed. The one designated at the 52 is the 52A, and the one designated as teh 52A is actually the 52.

>>>> Awhile back I had offered a link to download a copy of the scanned version of this article by Richard McMillan. I will do so, again, if it will help us gain serious investigative research assistants ... HOWEVER ... ACCORDING TO S&WCA and FORUM rules, I can offer this download link to my scanned version of Richard's article to S&WCA members, ONLY. SORRY to all you others. Email me from my profile link in this Forum, stating your name and S&WCA Member ID number, please. <<<<

Also, for many years we thought that 2605 (which I own) was the latest pre-39. We now have proof of 2624 being the highest known SN on a Pre-39 and I wouldn't be surprised if a few more showed up a bit higher than 2624 wherein we can also expect a few in the transition period to be found with various markings.

Richard also noted that at ( or about ) SN: A 121000 the 39-2 commenced. Since there have been earlier serial numbers verified. One is SN 109000 (no A prefix) which is a legitimate 39-2 with the new, short extractor slide. The -2 is in a smaller typeset seemingly added to the MODEL 39 as the SN: 109000 is directly centered over the MODEL 39, with the -2 added is no longer centered. See post #13 in this thread.

I had owned a consecutive set of model 39s, (not 39-2s), for over 20 years. They were non-factory engraved. They had been shipped to Texas dealer, Wolf & Klar in a larger order of Model 39s, all NOT engraved. These two were serial Numbers 109475 and 109476 that truly ARE Model 39s in every sense of the definition. Stamped "MODEL 39", long extractor, no A prefix, etc.

This research should be considered a "work in progress", with all of us pitching in with new data.


SHORT EXCERPT from Richard's article of 2004 (START)

1.3 The Pre-39s
The first production run of the Model 39 was in late 1954, and the first fifteen hundred guns or so are referred to by collectors as Pre-39s because they are not marked with a model number.

The serial numbers fall between 1001 and 2600 and are intermixed with the Model 41 serial numbers. Model numbers were not assigned until 1958, so this group of Pre-39s represents the first three years of production. In fact, some of the Pre-39 features appear intermittently up to approximately serial number 8000.

The distinguishing features of the Pre-39 compared to the Model 39 are as follows:

Short safety
Short tang
A unique frame back strap Insert and hammer stirrup
A unique left grip (no safety relief)
No trigger play spring
No model number on frame
No patent pending on early slides (Late Pre-39 slides have
the patent pending; however, slides were fitted without
regard for serial numbers. For example, serial number
1069, which was shipped from the factory on October 4,
1955, has the patent pending marking, while 1150 that
shipped on July 7, 1955 does not.)

Two types of early flat magazines followers were used before standardizing on a third type

Supplied with an instruction booklet (Only the Pre-39s and early Model 39s to about serial number 7000 were supplied with the instruction booklet.)
Figure 1.3.1, Pre-39 Serial Number 1151, One of a Consecutive Numbered Pair Note, the Short Tang and Short Safety

The Pre-39 as introduced in 1954 had an over-all length of 7 1/2 inches, barrel length of 4 inches, and sight radius of 5 1/2 inches. The rifling has six grooves, six lands, right hand twist, one turn in ten inches.

The lands are .071 inch wide and the groove width .115 inch. The weight of the gun, with an empty magazine, is approximately 28 ounces.

The barrels were changed in 1973 to five grooves and a one in 18-3/4 inch twist at approximately serial number A200,000.

Most of the Pre-39s as well as the Model 39s have the letter P (proof) stamped on the left hand side of the trigger guard. This stamping continues up to somewhere between serial number A250,000 and A300,000, at which time it was changed to the letter T(test).

The P was then stamped on the bottom of the barrel. The mark is to show that the barrel has been test fired.

1.4 The Pre-39 Reissue
A number of Model 39s have serial numbers which should be a Pre-39 gun, but are, in fact, Model 39s.

The guns were apparently returned to the factory at some time, probably for a major repair such as for a cracked frame. The factory, rather than repairing the gun, obtained a new gun from the then current production, stamped the old serial number on the new gun, and returned it to the owner.

These reissues are relativity common, particularly among guns in the low 2000 serial number range.

Figure 1.4.1 Serial Number 1917, Pre-39 Replacement Manufactured About 1966

SHORT EXTRACT from Richard's 2004 Article ( END )
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Sal - you may not be aware that Mac has continued to update his monograph and there are revised versions from 2011, 2012 and 2015. My most recent copy is dated 5/26/16. I don't know how Mike would feel about it but I think it would be appropriate for it to be reprinted in the Journal. A lot has been learned and there has been a lot of membership turnover in 14 years.
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Sal - you may not be aware that Mac has continued to update his monograph and there are revised versions from 2011, 2012 and 2015. My most recent copy is dated 5/26/16. I don't know how Mike would feel about it but I think it would be appropriate for it to be reprinted in the Journal. A lot has been learned and there has been a lot of membership turnover in 14 years.
Kevin, If you have it in PDF can you email it over to me. I just have the 2006 version. Much appreciated. Sal
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I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have helped educate me and provide great research over the years, first and foremost, Richard McMillan, Kevin Williams and Roy Jinks up in the top tier, whom without their help this would not have been possible.

And, in equal appreciation all who have contributed including, Les Boggess (les.b), Sam Tovar (MODEL 39) John Marshall (PALADIN85020), shawn mccarver, Brad, engine49guy, hkcavalier, Bob Frielich (TIRED GUNSMITH), Richard Sopko (COUGAR015), Mark Calzaretta (COLT_SAA), Mike Borkovic and so many others, past, present and future, my sincere "thank you". R.S. "Sal" Raimondi, Sr.
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Old 07-30-2018, 11:25 PM
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Could you please post a picture of 7175. I have 59xx and 67xx both having the long extractor lever with cut out relief on the left stock.
Sure thing!
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Old 07-31-2018, 12:16 AM
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Default Model 39 SN 7175 with short safety lever.

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Sure thing!
Thanks for posting. I like it. Do you have box / papers and / or a Historical letter on this one ?

Richard McMillan's original work on the early 9mm S&Ws indicates the short lever was eliminated at around SN: 8000. Of the early short levers I've notices some that appear a tad longer than the very early short levers, but still the "short"variation with non relieves stocks before the official 'longer' safety levers show up to stay.

Is the magazine a flat follower or the figure 8 stamped steel ? By that exceptionally long floor plate / tongue on your magazine, I'd suspect it to be the figure 8 stamped steel follower type. Can you photo for bottom of magazine and measure the length of the floor plate. I have many of those magazines with various size / length floor plates and assorted stamps on the floorplates, e.g. Some 9mm, some S&W 9mm some just S&W with a few different Ampersand type.

I will try to find and examine more of the 5000 to 8000 serial number range 9mms to determine further, but of those I seen others, in addition to the 2 I own, that have the longer safety levers with relief cut stocks in the 5000 and 7000 range than shorter. Here's another topic for further research.

Thanks again. Sal
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Old 07-31-2018, 12:37 AM
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I've got 4 39-2s, I'll have to get them out together and note the variations.

The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture.-39-2_3-jpg
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Old 07-31-2018, 01:27 AM
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Hi Sal,
Unfortunately it didn’t come with a box, fortunately I found this nice example in a pawn shop for $500 out the door a couple years ago, I think it was more just making a sale instead of knowing what they had so I was happy to get it quick before they thought about it more, box or no box. The mag floor plate is stamped and measures 1-5/8th” I compared it to another 39-2 I have and that one is smaller at 1.5” I intend to letter it but haven’t gotten around to it.
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Old 07-31-2018, 08:42 AM
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Sal - do you mean long safety lever? I'm confused.

I'd also like to see pictures of 7175. Thanks.
Yes, Kevin. I goofed. Thanks for correcting me. Yes, I mean "safety lever". I amended my post to read correctly.

Kevin, in all your research, when ( in what approximate serial number range) do you see the longer safety lever start showing up as the rule instead of the exception ? Are any of the components, or the slide (itself) serial numbered anywhere ? I never went as far as to fully disassemble a slide, however, if there is verification (serial number) or matching fitment ID, etc. I have only seen two 39 series pistol with a serial numbered slide, which I presumed were stamped when the pistol had gone back to S&W for service.

7175 is rather high serial number to have the short safety lever.
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Old 07-31-2018, 09:36 AM
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I can unequivocally say Sn. 8000 does not have the short lever, because
Im looking at it on my bench. Appears unfired with dark smooth Rosewood grips. I think the numbered box is around here somewhere.
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Old 07-31-2018, 11:33 AM
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Kevin, in all your research, when ( in what approximate serial number range) do you see the longer safety lever start showing up as the rule instead of the exception?
Unfortunately, I've concluded there is no "rule." There are so many guns that shipped out of sequence - some by as much as 10 years - and pre 39s mixed with 39s - features all mixed up - it just appears random. For example, 7175 just posted has early features but Mike says 8000 has later features.

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Are any of the components, or the slide (itself) serial numbered anywhere?
No, not as far as I know.
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Old 08-02-2018, 07:53 PM
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WOW! I just found this post and I need to read the entire thread and reply to it. The information posted by Sal and the others weighing in is nothing short of amazing. I had the pleasure of meeting Richard McMillan in Reno and found him to be a true authority on the model 39. I hope to meet Kevin Williams some day and pick his brain as well. Sal gives many accolades to others such as Roy, Richard and Kevin and they are well deserved however Sal has shown time and time again that he is an S&W authority in his own right. I own many variations of the model 39 and have collected them for over 25 years yet each time I talk to or read a post by our members, I learn something new.
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Default A couple of Model 39's

Here's a few pix of the pre model engraved 39 and the early nickel 39 I mentioned in my last post. I hope the pictures download ok.
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Old 08-03-2018, 01:24 AM
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unfortunately Photobucket is holding my pics hostage
Photobucket is holding the entire internet hostage. What they did with their little scam has been the internet equivalent of the burning of The Library of Alexandria.

Also, the Model 39 has to be one of the most aesthetic guns of all-time.
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Old 08-03-2018, 01:44 AM
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Charles, PB released the hostages, if you check the older threads which stopped the earlier photos from showing up, they now display again. The only exceptions that I’m aware of are those folks who went into PB and deleted their own pictures. It is my understanding that PB is under new management. Check it out.

I can once again see my own and others pictures that disappeared back then. I haven’t put anything else on PB, but am glad that these old threads are back up and running.

And yes.... the model 39 is one of the most pleasing to the eye semiautomatic guns ever made!!

Best Regards, Les
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Old 08-03-2018, 01:52 PM
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Sal:

This is a great thread, as I know almost nothing about the Model 39, but I am learning more... Richard McMillen and Rich Sopko both had wonderful and extensive Model 39 Displays at this year's SWCA Symposium. It is fun to learn more about this significant firearm from some real enthusiasts.

Thanks for sharing,
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:46 PM
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The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture.  
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Im going to sit back and re-read a great Thread. Every Post has a tidbit of information. Im going to use Mr. Jinks number of 347,551 mod-39s mfg.
from 1955 to 1981. I have a few questions listed below:
1. did any 39s have numbered grips or slides? Mags are a foregone.
2. what time period was the barrel bushing changed?
3. when was the slide serration moved forward?
4. hole in hammer?
5. we are closing in on the era of short levers.
Im a student and by no means an expert or self proclaimed authority.
I will now re-read and ponder. Mike
I will leave the military 39s up to Mr. Flick, and the pre-pre-39s to those
with the deep pockets. Mike
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Old 08-03-2018, 05:46 PM
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The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture. The seductive Model 39s as collectors' subculture.  
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Default S&W Model 39 Presented to Jack Webb - July 1955 Guns Magazine

Photos of the Guns Magazine cover and the Jack Webb article.
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Old 08-03-2018, 05:59 PM
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Photos of the Guns Magazine cover and the Jack Webb article.
Thanks for this great SHARE ! Much appreciated. Sal
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Old 08-03-2018, 07:34 PM
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As many of you know, I love engraved S&Ws. But I have not paid much attention to the engraved Model 39's; however, I recently found these photos from the National Firearms Museum (Robert E. Peterson Collection NRA Museums) of a very "seductive" engraved Model 39 (Click on the photos for more details):









The details on the slide are outstanding...
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Old 08-03-2018, 10:04 PM
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As many of you know, I love engraved S&Ws. I have not paid much attention to the engraved Model 39's; however, I recently found these photos from the National Firearms Museum (Robert E. Peterson Collection NRA Museums) of a very "seductive" engraved Model 39 (Click on the photos for more details):



The details on the slide are outstanding...
Richard. That's one I hadn't seen before. The artwork is nothing short of magnificent.

It is with no small regret that I missed 2018 Symposium in Reno, this year to meet you and catch up with other members (Richard Mc Millan for one) I hadn't seen in about 20 years.
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Old 08-03-2018, 10:11 PM
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The 39 always felt good in my hand. Very natural. Reminds me of a P38.

Bought and sold several 39-2s in my youth, I finally got one at a police auction around 1988 that has stuck with me. Last year I added another in nickel.



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Old 08-04-2018, 06:01 PM
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Richard, (RKmesa) Thanks for sharing the pics of that amazing engraved gun. It's right where it belongs in a museum.
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