39-2 Steel Frame - Weight Difference?

[mreed911]

Recently picked up two 39-2's at auction. One is 3.35 oz heavier than the other, leading me to believe it's a steel-framed gun. Disassembled, the weight different is all in the frame - not the slide/barrel assembly.

I saw this thread that indicated there are, in fact, a few steel-framed 39-2's: http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-wesson-semi-auto-pistols/246631-model-39-2-steel-frame.html

Are there any specific identifying marks on steel vs. alloy? Anyone here weighed their frames to determine the frame weight difference?

I'd be interested in understanding if it's a difference in alloy makeup or I really do have a rare steel frame.

SN/Alloy = A157XXX
SN/Heavy = A219473

 

[Jeppo]

Won't a magnet answer the question?

 

[stansdds]

I would expect there to be around a 3.5 oz difference between a steel and an aluminum alloy pistol receiver. A magnet is a sure-fire way to determine if it is steel.

 

[lowriderfxr]

By the time the -2s came along, the steel frames were long gone.

 

[gmborkovic]

MR. reed, as mentioned, put a magnet on the frame. Remove the steel slide and mag. Is the rear tang short or long. Post a pic.