DSS Model 19 with verification letter AYZ serial number range

[RWJ]

Several months ago, another thread ( https://smith-wessonforum.com/threads/matte-black-model-19-5.737386/#post-142177022 ) came up discussing DSS Model 19s and their serial number ranges.

Back on June 19th, I acquired what I suspected was a DSS Model 19 4' Round Butt gun with an AYZ9208 serial, which fell just outside the ranges that I was aware of, but matched in all other respects. I requested a letter, which arrived today, confirming that it was in fact a State Department Model 19, which now gives me a matching set with both a 2 1/2" and 4" guns.

I think it's time to stop for a while.......

 

[DoubleNickel]

That’s pretty darn cool! Congratulations

 

[snw19_357]

That's a confusing letter. Awesome to see it's a verified DSS but I read it as the State Department was done with it in Mar, 1988 and not that it shipped to them in Mar, 1988??

Do you think your letter has been affected by the mainframe being down. I know Mike mentioned above AWV prefix.

 

[RWJ]

Yeah, it's a bit of a head scratcher the way it's worded, but it does say it was shipped, so I don't know. I do recognize the address they give for it going to, so it may well be a case of insufficient data due to the mainframe being down. I may try to follow-up if/when the computer c9omes back up, but who knows when that will be .

 

[RWJ]

Thought I'd wrap this thread up with a family portrait, to include the authorized ammo. The Federal .38 Spl. 125gr +P Nyclad Hollowpoint was the Authorized service round for the Model 19 during its Service life for the majority of its service, but was supplanted by the Winchester .38 Spl. 125gr +P JHP during its final days after the cessation of Nyclad production and exhaustion of supply. It is doubtful that any of the Winchester was ever sent to posts, as the pistols had been taken out of active service, and most had a stock of Nyclad remaining; the Winchester was authorized but mainly used in training only.