.44 Magnum transition to Model 29 question

[The Gila Bender]

I'm confused, which is not unusual. I'm looking at the SCSW entry for the Model 29.

Page 197 of the SCSW states, "...(the name change was authorized in 1957, but it is believed the first Model 29 marked gun was produced early 1958). Beginning serial number c. S184000."

Then on page 198, under "Engineering and Production Changes" the second bullet point states, "29 (1957): Stamping of model number at approximate serial number S179000"

So what's the deal?

TGB

 

[The Gila Bender]

I'm confused, which is not unusual. I'm looking at the SCSW entry for the Model 29.

Page 197 of the SCSW states, "...(the name change was authorized in 1957, but it is believed the first Model 29 marked gun was produced early 1958). Beginning serial number c. S184000."

Then on page 198, under "Engineering and Production Changes" the second bullet point states, "29 (1957): Stamping of model number at approximate serial number S179000"

So what's the deal?

TGB

 

[mwpslp]

Already researching I see.

 

[The Gila Bender]

Yup. The first thing I do is look up serial numbers in SCSW. I wonder what "the letter" will reveal, too. This is great fun!

What I'm researching, friends, is a 4" four screw Model 29, #1840xx.

TGB

 

[Rad29]

The factory guess based on when the engineering change was approved is the S179xxx range. From guns observed, the S184xxx is where you find guns stamped Model 29 and 44 Mags without a model marking.

Bob