I finally just bought my first S&W

[wandaddy]

Hey everyone. I have been wanting either a Model 36 or 686+ for the longest time, but then stumbled across a Model 30 at a local pawn shop. I ended up picking it up for $359. I think that is a decent deal. I am trying to figure out when exactly it was made though. It says Model 30 on the inside and has the pinned barrel that I believe is associated with the I-frame. My serial number is 690XXX. Would anyone be able to help me identify what year it was produced? Thanks in advance.

 

[brick]

Looks like between 1946 - 1960 (536685 - 712953)

 

[Absalom]

I think that serial puts production just about 1960. This wasn't a huge seller, and data are slim, but I can find reference to a couple of 698- and 699-range guns shipped in early 1961.

 

[Art Doc]

All S&Ws had pinned barrels before 1982. Model numbers begin 1958 so that gives an immediate reference. Original stocks had the little diamonds until 1968, another quick clue.

 

[mod34]

Congratulations and welcome to the club! We'll all lay odds that this won't be your last!

 

[wandaddy]

Thanks for the information everyone! It does have the little diamonds on the grips. It's such a neat little revolver and I can't wait to take it to the range. It has a little wear on the bluing that seems like it probably spent a lot of time in a holster. Was $359 a decent price for it?

 

[kscharlie]

Welcome to the forum. I think you did quite well on your purchase. I have a 2" .32 Hand Ejector that was shipped in June of 1957, before it officially became the Model 30.

Both yours and mine are built on the "New I Frame" Model of 1953. S&W began building these on the J frame with the introduction of the 30-1. I really enjoy shooting this revolver and suspect you will also. That is, if you are able to find any ammo.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from ol' Wyo.

Like Charlie, I have a .32 Hand Ejector (before model numbers). It's serial number 637539 and it shipped on June 1, 1956.

My Model 31 (aka .32 Regulation Police) (like yours except it has a square butt in the same serial number range as the .32 HEs/Model 30s) serial number 689371 shipped in August 1958.

S&W didn't ship in serial number order, but I'd bet yours left the factory in '58.

 

[RWPBR]

Welcome to the sweet addiction!

 

[Golphin]

Thanks for the information everyone! It does have the little diamonds on the grips. It's such a neat little revolver and I can't wait to take it to the range. It has a little wear on the bluing that seems like it probably spent a lot of time in a holster. Was $359 a decent price for it?

I am no expert by any means but that price is very good for my neck of the woods here in North Central Florida. I will by about any S&W revolver in the $300. range if I ever I see one unless it is a complete mess.

 

[mod34]

Thanks for the information everyone! It does have the little diamonds on the grips. It's such a neat little revolver and I can't wait to take it to the range. It has a little wear on the bluing that seems like it probably spent a lot of time in a holster. Was $359 a decent price for it?

I would agree that you did quite well. As described and imaged, I would have likely gone $100 more on it. Nice!

 

[duke2002]

I started out with a model 28 bout 20some years ago. 12 smiths later and im still looking

 

[Krogen]

Welcome and good job! I would have snapped it up in a heartbeat.

 

[merl67]

Welcome to the forum. That is a nice one, and as others have said you did just fine on that little gem.

 

[schutz5]

Welcome to the Smith and Wesson forum....is my message long enough now?

 

[jmace57]

Welcome to the forum. I too would have snapped it up at that price. Nice find!