HE 2nd numbers and odd markings

[hap]

I just picked up a nice HE 2nd. one set of numbers ( 239xx) appears on the bbl flat, bottom of grip, and the cylinder. another number,(520xx) appears on the yoke and in the yoke cut. I'm used to seeing the SN on modern smiths in the yoke cut,so which of these is actually the SN? the frame has 2 different numbers, one in the yoke cut and the other on the grip bottom. There is also a mark in the yoke cut i have never seen, looks like an arrow with 2 right angle turns and S2 under it. the letter W is also in the yoke cut. Very nice gun with factory 5"bbl. all help and info aappreciated.

 

[hap]

I just picked up a nice HE 2nd. one set of numbers ( 239xx) appears on the bbl flat, bottom of grip, and the cylinder. another number,(520xx) appears on the yoke and in the yoke cut. I'm used to seeing the SN on modern smiths in the yoke cut,so which of these is actually the SN? the frame has 2 different numbers, one in the yoke cut and the other on the grip bottom. There is also a mark in the yoke cut i have never seen, looks like an arrow with 2 right angle turns and S2 under it. the letter W is also in the yoke cut. Very nice gun with factory 5"bbl. all help and info aappreciated.

 

[opoefc]

hap, The 239XX is the serial number. The 520XX is the assembly/work number used to identify fitted parts during assembly before the serail numbers were added, The 520XX should appear in the frame/crane area and on the grip frame and the back side of the sideplate. The S2 and other marks, are military inspectors marks indicating that the frame was originally one of the N frames made for the Model 1917 Army contract, but never used for that but were used by S&W to complete orders for commercial sales, like the .44HEs.

 

[Muley Gil]

hap,

I presume your HE is a .44 Special. It was probably shipped in the early 1920s. The 5" revolvers handle nicely.

 

[j38]

hap,

Sounds like a neat gun. How about some pictures!

Jerry