640-1 question

[AT1984]

I just got a nice 640-1 .357 in a trade. I've done quite a bit of research on J and K frames (or so I thought). The serial number isn't on the yoke like every "modern" S&W I've seen, it's inside the top of the frame...Is that unusual?

Thanks!
AT1984

 

[kaaskop49]

Good morning. Serial #s are most often found on the butt of the gun. What is that # on the frame? Perhaps it is an agency inventory #. Can only guess. Gotta get out the door, other posters will fill you in.

 

[AT1984]

The serial number is CNT0XXX. There is nothing stamped on the yoke besides "640-1".
Thanks for the reply.

 

[TucsonMTB]

Did you look at the bottom of the butt of the revolver for a serial number? Does it match the number you found elsewhere on the frame?

I do recall seeing a revolver posted on GunBroker that was described as having a serial number "in an unusual location", on the lower surface of the top strap where you have found yours.

 

[AT1984]

Did you look at the bottom of the butt of the revolver for a serial number? Does it match the number you found elsewhere on the frame?

I do recall seeing a revolver posted on GunBroker that was described as having a serial number "in an unusual location", on the lower surface of the top strap where you have found yours.

To tell you the truth, I had the grips off, and didn't think to check. I'm at work, but will check later. There is definitely something stamped (CNT00XX) inside the top strap, and nothing on the yoke except "640-1". Thanks!

 

[AT1984]

I pulled the grips...same number on the butt: CNT00XX. Anything unusual about the serial number on the top strap? Thanks...

 

[colt_saa]

S&W traditionally places the serial number of revolvers on the butt.

When a model ships with grips that hide the butt, the serial number is often placed in a second location as well.

The most common of those second locations is the yoke. In modern days the number has also appeared under the frame window on the left side of the revolver as well as on the underside of the topstrap.

 

[AT1984]

colt_saa, Thanks for the info. I appreciate it.

 

[riverrat38]

I have a new 640-1, made in 2013.
It is a Pro model, thats why its a -1 and not a -3.
The SN is on the yoke, so they must have changed over the years.

Best,
Rick

 

[AT1984]

I have a new 640-1, made in 2013.
It is a Pro model, thats why its a -1 and not a -3.
The SN is on the yoke, so they must have changed over the years.

Best,
Rick

Rick,
I'm pretty sure they have changed. Nowadays, a 640-1 "Pro" has the fluted barrel and Trijicon sights...at least from what I can tell.