J.C. ...Chuck and I have studied assembly numbers extensively and I have discussed their significance with Roy on more than one occasion. Normally, N-frames with serial numbers in the S130000 range have an assembly number in the 45000 range, but the 44 Magnums with serial numbers in the S130000 range have assembly numbers in the 73000-75000 range, suggesting these serial numbers were held back for some of the early 44 Magnums since the assembly numbers date to 1956 when most would have been made. However, it is only the S130000 guns that are unusual since the early shipped 44 Magnums with other serial numbers also have "normal" or expected assembly numbers (i.e. S166065, shipped on 4-2-56, has an assembly number of 79218 and S160304, shipped on 5-8-56, has an assembly number of 74583). Some of the earliest 44 Magnums also have a 7 and the letter X or H stamped in the yoke cut.

You can drive yourself to distraction with all of these numbers .

Bill