Thanks all, knowing this now helps tremendously. I also have another M & P blued steel with the serial number of C1705XX, it's not in near as good condition. Any idea of it's age?
I just purchased a nickel plated 38 spl. I believe it is a pre Model 10 M & P. The serial number is 9734XX. The number is also located underneath the barrel and on the rear of the cylinder. Under the yoke is a large 5 with 16244 underneath it. The revolver appears to have been re-nickeled but...