Trying to Get it Right (Grips for Model 1905)

[JohnnyW]

Looks like I'm picking up a Model 1905. Serial number 90642 (think that indicates it was born in the 1906/7 time frame). Blued finish and 6 1/2 inch barrel.

It looks to be in very good condition with one exception. The grips are plastic faux pearl and cracked. My CDO (that's OCD but in alphabetic order) just won't allow me to let them stick around.

While trying to research what the correct grips for the gun were, I ran into some confusing information. As best I can discern the correct grips for the gun are shown in the attached picture (round hump on top with no medallion).

I hope some of you smart guys can straighten me out.

Thanks in advance

 

[DARE]

These are N Frame, but K Frame should be the same. 1907-1911. Think you are looking for concave. The grips you show are convex and from a later period.

 

[DARE]

Mine is from 1913. By then they were using Gold Medallion stocks.

 

[DWalt]

Yes, that would be the general appearance of the wooden grips used until about 1911. Checkered round tops with a sort of concave upper area, no S&W medallions. The grips shown in your picture are of the style used throughout the 1920s, also no medallions.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Peanut Capital of the World, Johnny! Since you are a new poster, I hope you don't take offense at my question. Did that serial come from the bottom of the butt frame or inside the yoke cut? If the latter, please post a picture of the one on the bottom of your butt frame. Also, I presume your gun has a square butt.

 

[JohnnyW]

Welcome to the forums from the Peanut Capital of the World, Johnny! Since you are a new poster, I hope you don't take offense at my question. Did that serial come from the bottom of the butt frame or inside the yoke cut? If the latter, please post a picture of the one on the bottom of your butt frame. Also, I presume your gun has a square butt.

Thank you for the welcome.

Yes, it's a square butt. That's the number from the butt of the grip and the underside of the barrel.

I've got a few pictures on my phone. I'll post them when I can figure out how to get them on my computer.

 

[JohnnyW]

These are N Frame, but K Frame should be the same. 1907-1911. Think you are looking for concave. The grips you show are convex and from a later period.

View attachment 787611

Yep, I was afraid that was going to be the case. Of the three styles, this is the one I've not yet located. Looks like the search is on.

Thank you for the picture. It definitely removes any question.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Thank you for the welcome.

Yes, it's a square butt. That's the number from the butt of the grip and the underside of the barrel.

I've got a few pictures on my phone. I'll post them when I can figure out how to get them on my computer.

You're welcome, neighbor. Macon area?

Ok, no need to post pictures unless you want to show off the gun. Just wanted to make sure we had the right serial to set the production period for your grips. If you have a smart phone, you can post them directly using the browser.

 

[greenwellg]

WE HAVE CONSECUTIVE SERIAL NUMBERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mine is 90643.
Talk about crazy. If for any reason you decide to sell let me know.

 

[JohnnyW]

Limited photos right now, but here's what I found

 

[JohnnyW]

You're welcome, neighbor. Macon area?

Ok, no need to post pictures unless you want to show off the gun. Just wanted to make sure we had the right serial to set the production period for your grips. If you have a smart phone, you can post them directly using the browser.

Just a few miles south of Macon, Warner Robins

 

[wheelgun610]

The bad news is that the period correct stocks for that gun are probably gonna be the hardest K frame stocks to sniff out. I had a near mint set once upon a time, but sold 'em to another member here many years ago.
I'd start out by placing a WTB ad in the forum's classified section.

 

[toad67]

Send a message to Gary.

goatsnguns

smith-wessonforum.com

 

[desi2358]

Limited photos right now, but here's what I found

Those actually appear to be genuine pearl........ just not factory ones though. The thin cross section is common on aftermarket pearl grips of the era. Cracking is also not uncommon on pearl as it is a bit fragile.

 

[DARE]

Thanks for your service in the Air Force. Always like to brag on my sister. 23 years in the Air Force and retired as a Lt. Colonel. Married to a guy that retired as a Full Colonel with 30 years.