1955 Model 25

[DRJ]

I just picked up a nice 1955 model 25 and have a question. What moon clips should I be using with it? This is my first older 25 and it looks like it should take thicker moon clips than my newer one used. The gun dates to 1954-55 and is marked 1955 but I have no moon clips left so what should I buy and where should I be looking? Thanks

Doyle

 

[Photog]

You can look up where to buy on the internet, but I have personally bought mine through Brownells.
World's Largest Supplier of Gun Parts, Gunsmith Tools & Shooting Accessories - Brownells. I have always had good luck with them and if the product does not work, they are easy to deal with on returns. They also have a technical staff that will be glad to answer any questions you have. I have been dealing with them since the late 70's.
P.S. You need to post pics!!!

 

[DRJ]

Thanks, I buy quite a bit from Brownells so I will add some to my next order. I should have a bunch here but for the life of me I can't find them. I will try to get pics later. Thanks

Doyle

 

[Dave T]

I just picked up a nice 1955 model 25…

and

The gun dates to 1954-55 and is marked 1955...

Since model numbers were introduced along about 1957 this can't be a Model 25.

They were the "45 Caliber Model of 1955" and given that introduction date it's not likely to be from 1954. (smile)

I have one from 1956 that's been cut to 5":


Dave

 

[bamabiker]

and


Since model numbers were introduced along about 1967 this can't be a Model 25.
Dave

I think you had a typo, 1967 should be 57.
Nice 5".

 

[Freischütz]

Standard moon clips should work. My 22-4 and Colt M1917 use the same thickness.

 

[DRJ]

and


Since model numbers were introduced along about 1967 this can't be a Model 25.

They were the "45 Caliber Model of 1955" and given that introduction date it's not likely to be from 1954. (smile)

I have one from 1956 that's been cut to 5":



Dave

Thanks Dave, I wondered about that. I did know about the mod numbers starting in 1957 but when I looked the ser number in the book it said 1954-55 so I am a bit confused. The ser number is S1063xx so what would the correct date be? I own many S&W revolvers but this one confused me. Thanks

Doyle

 

[georgepittenger]

The std moon clips from Ranch Products work fine in my Model of 1955 . I think you will find yours to be quite accurate . They are also very attractive IMO .

Regards
George

 

[Dave T]

I think you had a typo, 1967 should be 57.
Nice 5".

Yep! Those pesky numbers are right next to each other…and I have wide fingers. (LOL)

To the OP, serial numbered frames were not built or shipped in sequence. Others here with more of a collector bent can give you more details but I'm willing to bet money I can't afford (smile) a letter from Smith on your gun will show it shipped sometime in '55 at the earliest.

By the way, congratulations on an early 1955.

Dave

 

[DRJ]

Thanks Dave, It's really a pretty nice unmolested gun and I think I will be happy with it. Thanks everyone for the replies now to get some moon clips and give her a whirl.

Doyle

 

[Skeetr57]

You don't have to use moon or half moon clips to shoot that gun. It will function just fine without the clips, but extraction will have to be by pulling the shells out with fingernails or punching them out with a pencil or similar size wooden dowel.

 

[Nightowl]

DRJ:

If I am reading this thread correctly, you are stating your serial number is S1063xx. This serial number should be from the early '50's way before the Model 1955 was introduced. So, I'm guessing you have the Model of 1950, or someone has changed the barrel on your .45. The 1955 has the barrel profile similar to the Model 29, while the Model 1950 has a more slender profile. I have guns in the S159xxx that letter from 1956, is why I think you have the earlier edition of the .45. How about some pictures?

 

[DRJ]

Thanks Nightowl. I don't think it has been re barreled but I still don't understand why it is marked Mod 25 with that old of a ser number. Here's a quick cell phone pic if this helps. Thanks

Doyle

 

[Art Doc]

1. Is it stamped with a model number?

2. Could the number be S166 or 196 and it only looks like 106?

 

[weatherby]

1. Is it stamped with a model number?

2. Could the number be S166 or 196 and it only looks like 106?

Take the targets off and get the serial number from the bottom of the grip frame and confirm ?

 

[DRJ]

1. Is it stamped with a model number?

2. Could the number be S166 or 196 and it only looks like 106?

Yes it is stamped Mod 25. I am pretty sure the ser number is 106 but I have old eyes so I will find a magnifier tomorrow and better light. That is also the number my LGS had and when I checked the book it showed 1954-55. Thanks

Doyle

 

[DRJ]

Ok I pulled the grips and the ser is S1963xx not 1063xx. I should have checked there first. So now what would the date be? Thanks everyone sorry I gave the wrong number.

Doyle

 

[Doc44]

Your Model 25 was most likely shipped in 1959/60. It should have a 4-screw frame and MOD-25 stamped in the yoke cut. Looks nice a nice example you should enjoy at the range.

Bill

 

[bamabiker]

Very nice gun. Take care of those non-relieved target grips, they're worth more than a pretty penny or two.

 

[DRJ]

Thanks everyone, I think I'm going to like this gun and I have a lot of 45 ammo.

Doyle