4" Mod. 10-5

[Reddog]

I just bought a gun from a member for $320, shipped. Serial # on the butt is 2D062XX. The yoke is stamped 43116. Does that serial number make sense? On the left side below the cylinder it is stamped
C.A.T. GEORGIA VT. . Who has some info on this gun? It seems to be in very good condition but is in need of a thorough cleaning. It appears to have been touched up with cold blue and the stocks aren't original. They look like some version of Herrett's that have been refinished.
Dick

 

[gunfish]

The number on the yoke is not a serial number and does not have any meaning after assembly. The serial you give indicates 1977 as year of manufacture.

 

[Art Doc]

I think that's CAI for Century Arms International. Big gun importer. This revolver was likely part of an overseas police contract that has now been imported for US sales. Federal law requires an import stamp.

 

[Goony]

Well, don't be surprised if your post is moved, as this revolver is definitely newer than 1961 - 1977 would be about right. Evidently exported, then eventually repatriated. To find out where it went, a letter may or may not be helpful, as it may have gone to a stateside middleman who concluded the foreign sale. Any proofing marks?

That yoke number has no significance in dating or assessing the gun.

Edit: I see a couple of others posted while I was composing my reply.

 

[Reddog]

Thanks All!
I'll check for proof marks when I clean it. I shot a target with it a while ago and it shoots where you point it. It will make a good holster gun and car gun on trips.
Dick

 

[Texas Star]

I think the stocks are Herrett's Shooting Stars.

 

[Reddog]

I think you're right, Star!
I have five other sets, only they dont have the thumbrest.
Someone asked about proofmarks, there aren't any.
Dick

 

[shawn mccarver]

I just bought a gun from a member for $320, shipped. Serial # on the butt is 2D062XX. The yoke is stamped 43116. Does that serial number make sense? On the left side below the cylinder it is stamped
C.A.T. GEORGIA VT. . Who has some info on this gun? It seems to be in very good condition but is in need of a thorough cleaning. It appears to have been touched up with cold blue and the stocks aren't original. They look like some version of Herrett's that have been refinished.
Dick

Although often printed in the yoke of the S&W revolver, the official serial number is the one on the butt of the revolver per BATFE. The other number you see is some sort of assembly number, and is not a serial number.

The revolver sounds to me like a Century Arms import of a revolver originally exported by S&W to another country. Century Arms International is in Georgia, VT. Are you sure the marking is not C.A.I.?

 

[Jebus35745]

Nice gun Dick, saw you snagged it in the classified abt a week ago. The K frame Herretts are great for double action shooting for me. Looks like a good shooter. I just got a 64 with a heavy bbl and a real slick double action. Take care, Larry

 

[Reddog]

Hey, Larry!
Wondered where you guys have been! I haven't been shooting much! It's been over 100° just about every day lately!
Shawn,
I looked again and I'd swear it's marked C.A.T.. But I'm also sure it's a Century Arms gun.
Dick

 

[Reddog]

I really like shooting this gun! It has a wider front sight which, unlike the older M&P half moon sight, is is sort of stair stepped up the back side. The rear groove in the top of the frame appears to be wider, too. Probably to match the front sight. They're dead on point of aim and are similar to looking through adjustable sights! A great gun for every day use! A real sturdy workhorse!
Dick

 

[PeterCartwright]

Love 10-5s! My dad bought my grandfather one when I was a kid (early mid-60s) and I always wanted one. Found a pristine (sans box/papers) gun several years ago. Like yours, it shoots very nicely to POA and its trigger is quite good for a gun that obviously saw little action. These K frame .38s may not have the "wow" factor of some other Smiths, but I love them.

PC