Odd Marking on 15-3

[robertwhite]

Saw a nickel 15-3 in a pawn shop that had a V stamped in the underside of the barrel, near the frame. It had the same nickel coating as the rest of the gun, so I believe it was there when it left the factory.

What would this V stand for?

[robertwhite]

No one?

I'm guessing that the mark does not belong there.

[geoff40]

Are you positive it was a v? Some models finished in nickel have "N" stamped in a few places on the gun, pretty sure one place being where your V is. Is it possible it is part of an N and not a V? I am not sure if nickel model 15s would be stamped in this way

[wetdog]

I have a nickel 15-4 with a not so good N stamped under the barrel. It could be confused with a V.

[robertwhite]

I am 99% positive it is a V and not an N. It was deeply stamped, so any evidence of the other leg on an N would likely be somewhat visible. I will check it out when I go back if its still there.

[murphydog]

I think I have seen a similar factory-appearing stamp on the barrel of a nickel S & W also. It may be an inspector's or fitter's stamp.

[wetdog]

Here are pics of a 34-1, 15-4 , and a 58 in Nickel. All 3 stamps are flawed, especially the 58.