I have traced the model of a fine revolver to be a 1905 M&P change 4 via the Blue Book. 5-screw, Maltese crosses fore and aft of the caliber, 5 inch barrel, six-shot, round butt, rubber grips.
Serial # is 350933.
Could someone please tell me the date of manufacture? Blue Book puts it between 1915-1942. I looking to narrow it down.
350933 is an M&P. That's what S&W called it. "Model of 1905 fourth change" is collector-speak. The closest M&P SN I have listed is 3535xx which shipped in 9/1920. The "Maltese crosses" are called dingbats. Anyway, that's what most call them. Their purpose was to make a more uniform depth impression from the roller die on the barrel.
I have a similar revolver with a factory letter, serial number is 357xxx and Mr. Roy Jinks advised a ship date of 1921. I want to say it was April or June but to be honest, it's been a couple years since I have glanced at the letter.
.... The "Maltese crosses" are called dingbats. Anyway, that's what most call them. Their purpose was to make a more uniform depth impression from the roller die on the barrel.
I'm curious to know exactly how you arrived at that conclusion. I have many years of firearms manufacturing experience - including a fair amount with roll marking equipment, and have never heard anything like that.