Help with 38 S&W Top Break

[azrudy]

Hello! I recently came into possession of 4 top break revolvers, all in 38 S&W.
One of them is a S&W in 38 S&W Ctg stamped on side of barrel. I'm thinking it's a 4th Model but not sure. Mechanically is tight and functions fine, but I was wondering if anyone can give me approx date of manufacture and model#. I'll attach photos, serial is 445951.
Thanks in advance for all your help!

 

[Boulder350]

azrudy - You are correct, it is a 4th model. Fourth models are from serial number 322,701 to 539,000 and were manufactured between 1895 and 1909. The serial cut off for antiques on this model is 382,022. That makes yours a modern handgun according to ATF rules.

 

[rct269]

I'll tell you what! I collected target guns, and don't know the first thing about guns like this. I have all the books that'd tell me whatever I wanted to know, and that's a sure cure for my ignorance; but I've never even tried to look up one of these things.

That said, the great thing about this hive is no matter what you want to know about ANYTHING from S&W, there's someone here who can tell you--and will---pretty much RIGHT NOW!!

That comes under the heading of "Not too shabby!"

Ralph Tremaine