Hi, recently a friend of mine inherited a S&W revolver in a deceased estate, he has asked me to help him identify it and I'm hoping someone here might be able to help. The serial # is, V172463 although the 6 could be an 8 it's a little hard to read, I also found another number not sure what it is for, 23259. I hope someone can help, thanks, Graham.
Help please
- Thread starter Gragra38
- Start date
Good morning, Graham. Welcome to the Forum.
The V in the serial number tells us that your friend's gun is a Victory model. These were produced for the military during WWII. They were the predecessors of the Model 10 Military & Police .38 cal. on the K size frame. There will be lots of information on them here if you will perform a search.
Are there any additional markings on the revolver that might give us an additional clue as to its history?
The second number that you give is simply an assembly number and has no significance.
Bob
The V in the serial number tells us that your friend's gun is a Victory model. These were produced for the military during WWII. They were the predecessors of the Model 10 Military & Police .38 cal. on the K size frame. There will be lots of information on them here if you will perform a search.
Are there any additional markings on the revolver that might give us an additional clue as to its history?
The second number that you give is simply an assembly number and has no significance.
Bob
Hi Bob, thanks very much for the quick reply, so it's a model 10 from about ww11, that makes sense as the person it cam from had served during that time I believe, would you know if parts would be available for it as it needs a new hand and grips. I looked fairly well for all the numbers and could not see others, but I will check again, any specific areas that you might suggest to take special interest in, thanks again for your help Bob, cheers,
Graham.
Graham.
linde
US Veteran
There are others who will likely come along who are experts on the Victory model but, while you're waiting, you might take special interest in the caliber and markings other than numbers and share them so they experts will be able to give you more insight.
For example, is the caliber marking on the right side of the barrel 38 S&W (a British Commonwealth caliber) or 38 S&W Special (a U.S. forces caliber). In general for V-prefix M&Ps, a five inch barrel length will be 38 S&W and a four inch will be S&W Special. These two cartridges are NOT interchangeable.
Also, take note of markings on the top strap . . . like U.S. Property . . . and proof marks. A series of good close-up photos posted will be very useful. And, as Bob suggested, a search on this early Hand Ejector forum will produce a wealth of information.
Whichever variety Victory your friend inherited, he has a neat piece of history. Welcome to the Forum,
Russ
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As bettis1 explained, it is NOT a Model 10 from WW II. Model numbers were not used until 1957. This is a Victory Model made as part of a military contract. Most are either a 4" barrel in 38 S&W Special or a 5" in 38 S&W for Britain. Caliber should be on barrel.
