29-5 Classic serial numbers

[Shark Bait]

I just picked up a 29-5 Classic with a 5 inch barrel. The serial number has a TJB prefix and there is and identical one on an auction site with an TJA prefix. This seems way off for the manufacturing years. The box label for the TJA gun shows 10/17/1990. The SCSW4 states these guns weren't introduced until 1991. Any thoughts?





Odd numbers X'ed out on the grip frame:

 

[Engine49guy]

Checked my notes,
29-5 Classic, 5"
BKP-8080  Shipped  Oct  1991

 

[snw19_357]

The SCSW4 states these guns weren't introduced until 1991. Any thoughts?

Fiscal vs calendar? SCSW says 1982 for 19-5 and 66-2 change but I have seen more than a few that shipped in late 1981.

 

[snw19_357]

This probably won't help and may add more confusion but here's a thread I started about serial number placemnt on a 29-5 Classic I ran into. TJA prefix also.

Serial numbers on Model 29-5

 

[Shark Bait]

Thanks for that. I wonder what a letter would say about the prefix, if anything. My gun has the serial number on the bottom of the butt and etched under the top strap above the cylinder.

 

[Smith_586]

I had an 8 inch 29-5 classic, mine had the TJA serial prefix as well and never could find much info on it. Ended up trading it in a 686 silhouette no dash, the 8 inch full tube was a little too front heavy for me.

 

[The Gila Bender]

The attached pics are a 629 with "TJA" prefix dating to October 1990. "TJB" must be 1991 and that must be an early 29-5. And it's pretty darn nice, btw.

 

[Shark Bait]

I just noticed that my 629-3 also has a TJB prefix and shipped in March of 1991.