9303...The three revolvers (N153333 (the one picture), N153444, N153555) are in the hands of collectors. They were ordered by the owner of American Firearms Warehouse, who had connections in the S&W factory. Each revolver was made by combining a Model 58 frame with an extensively modified Model 29 barrel. The box for this revolver indicates the gun is a 29-58. It is stamped simply MOD. 29 in the yoke cut. In order to avoid paying for the extensive work that went into creating these guns, they were invoiced as regular Model 58s. Eventually, S&W became aware of what was going on and took appropriate actions to put a stop to it.

Quite a few specials were made this way before the practice was stopped. I have a Model 25-2 with an 8 3/8-inch barrel and target stocks made of birds eye maple that was made for the same person. It was invoiced as a regular Model 25-2 with a 6 1/2-inch barrel. Othe examples are various guns with serial number 3 (K3, N3, etc.).

Bill