I recently purchased a Model 13-1 at a gun show. The serial number is 2D861XX.

According to my SCSW, the M13-1 was made from 1974-1977. Yet, on page 399, it states under "2D-17D Serial Prefix" that the 2D80001-2D99999 was produced in 1978.

When was my gun made?

Also, am I correct in assuming the 13-1 was the first Model 13 made? If so, then why is is not simply a Model 13?

I get the same results you do looking at the book. I guess this is where you have to keep in mind that everything is approximate and there was often no sharp, clean change from one dash number to the next.

Those are nice stocks. Who made them?

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You're shy a few manners.

I looked at my S&W book and can see our confusion.
I just bought a 13-1 today but mine just has the "D" prefix.
Maybe someone smarter than us can explain this. Don

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"Don't worry be happy"

The serial number is 2D861XX

If you think that one is tough try 3D15XXX, also a model 13-1.



Also, am I correct in assuming the 13-1 was the first Model 13 made? If so, then why is is not simply a Model 13?

See pages 145 thru 147 of the SCSW, 3rd edition: .38 Military and Police Model 13 "Aircrewman Revolver" and USAF M-13 (The Aircrewman)


By the way, 3D15XXX letters as being shipped from the factory on March 31, 1978.
teesur.

OK the 13-1 is the first change on the model. the first run would be model 13 no dash number after it.on the SSN I cant say as i dont have the book with me at work.they are great guns. now you will need the 3inch one.

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God save the SOUTH

Those are Ahrends retro target stocks, maple, tung oil finish. My wife insisted on them. Actually, the M13-1 is hers. She's going to let me use the M65-3.

Well, that solved the mystery. There was a M13 long before the M13-1 came out. They are two very different revolvers, but both were designated M13.

Thanks for the posts!