Hi guys
Great site! But I must be missing something. Searched high and low and can find nothing about the "new" gun I just acquired: S&W model 1900, 5 shot 38 S&W DA, nickel plated. It has intricately detailed grips that appear to be "Bakelite" with owls head where S&W monogram usually appears, scroll work at but and below owl and around brass screw inserts.
Nickel ~ 50% gone with rust but not pitted. Action seems sound. Cylinder is bored through. Anyone got the story on these?

I think your gun may be an Iver Johnson as they used grips with an Owl Head logo.

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John. SWCA #1586

You have the solid frame Model 1900 Iver Johnson revolver. Look at the stamping on top of the barrel rib. It will say " I.J.A. & C.W. Model 1900 Fitchburg, Mass. U.S.A." for Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works. It's not a Smith & Wesson, however it's chambered for the .38S&W cartridge. Ed.

If it says "model 1900" on the topstrap it is an Iver Johnson solid frame revolver not a Smith & Wesson. These were made in 22Long, 32S&W and 38 S&W calibers. The Owlhead grips are an IJ trademark. It was a popular model for many years and there are a lot of them out there. Don't bring much unless they are in pristine condition.

Here is an interesting thread you might enjoy. http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/...beginning.html

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John. SWCA #1586

You guys are great. Now know the symbol in front of model number is the IJ. It is fixed frame. The link on IJ history was a real help. Planning to put this back in service as CCW when I take class next month. BTW serial is 3165 which probably puts it early since they made so many- not willing to buy $30 book for info on $100 gun.
Thanks

Just a thought, if you spend some time here be ready to order the book. You will use it, I'm sure.

Hope you already have the ammo you plan on using. 38 S&W ammo is not that easy to find in "normal" times.

I respectfully advise you to buy a better carry weapon. And for sure, a newer one!

Are you perhaps very new to firearms?

Here is mine model 1900.
They are made in .38 S&W.
The flashgap between the cilinder and barrel is that large that I am afraid to shoot it.
It is a hard revolver to assembly again. You need false pins to do so. Beside that you need 3 hands to.

I do like this tiny revolver. It has seen service in WWII and been carried by the British Bobby's during that dark period.

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It's only safe for black powder: using modern smokless powder cartridges will stretch the frame.