Were all factory original nickel guns that left the factory as new, not sent back for a change in finish, marked with a "N" on the left flat of the frame under the grip? Im buying nickel guns and just trying to educate myself. I have some that are marked and some not. They all appear to be the same. I understand the final word is a letter. I have read that the factory did not use a copper substrate pre-plate. Patience appreciated.
Best, Mike 2796
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Generally, yes. Also, the rear face of a nickeled cylinder will also have an "N" stamp. But I cannot tell you the years during which this marking was used. S&W did not use a copper substrate. Also S&W did not plate hammers, triggers, or extractor stars, and many aftermarket plating jobs are found with these components plated. So that's something else to look for.

Hey, DWalt, thanks. Just trying to get educated. I do remember reading that a member had seen a letter from the factory, that two nickel RMs had been sent out with nickel hammers and triggers. I will and try to find.
Best, Mike 2796

From about 1950 through the 5-screw frame guns, there was an N stamped on the left side of the grip frame and in the extractor rod shroud or on the barrel flat. In the later 50s up through the 70s, there was an N stamped on the left side of the grip frame and on the rear surface of the extractor rod shroud on guns that had one. In the 70s, there was often an N on the cylinder at the outer edge or under the extractor.

Bill