I know that the Model 10, formerly M&P, revolver was produced in large numbers, so this 4” model isn’t remarkable. I just loved the balanced look of the gun, and the condition is very good. Especially the diamond Magna grips which fit this revolver as well as any I’ve ever handled.
I admit that I was surprised to realize that it has a 4-screw frame when I brought it home. The description identified it as 1961 or 1962 production. However, a little research seems to indicate that a Model 10 (sans dash) probably is 1959 or 1960. The case coloring on the hammer and trigger is really nice (although I failed to capture that in my photo). The trigger is narrow but distinctly ribbed. The back edge of the front sight is serrated to reduce glare. Mechanically everything is A-OK.
The tapered barrel looks “right” on this gun to my eyes. Significantly newer Model 10s appear to have returned to the tapered barrel, but it looks like a heavier, straight profile barrel was standard for a while not long after this one was produced.
Are these numbers on the grip frame just inspectors’ marks? I don’t see any diamonds or stars, etc here or anywhere else on the gun, but perhaps something was done in May of 1970? If the gun was refinished, it was an excellent job.
A few more questions: When did S&W transition from penciling the serial number inside the right grip panel to stamping the numbers? Also, I have a mid-1950s Model of 1950 where the numbers are stamped loosely by hand. Here they are lined up very neatly. Would that be S&W or someone else?
In any event, I really like this little revolver and the way it feels in my hand.
P.S. can someone please remind me of the special character to search the Ship Date Request forum for a range of serial numbers?
I admit that I was surprised to realize that it has a 4-screw frame when I brought it home. The description identified it as 1961 or 1962 production. However, a little research seems to indicate that a Model 10 (sans dash) probably is 1959 or 1960. The case coloring on the hammer and trigger is really nice (although I failed to capture that in my photo). The trigger is narrow but distinctly ribbed. The back edge of the front sight is serrated to reduce glare. Mechanically everything is A-OK.
The tapered barrel looks “right” on this gun to my eyes. Significantly newer Model 10s appear to have returned to the tapered barrel, but it looks like a heavier, straight profile barrel was standard for a while not long after this one was produced.
Are these numbers on the grip frame just inspectors’ marks? I don’t see any diamonds or stars, etc here or anywhere else on the gun, but perhaps something was done in May of 1970? If the gun was refinished, it was an excellent job.
A few more questions: When did S&W transition from penciling the serial number inside the right grip panel to stamping the numbers? Also, I have a mid-1950s Model of 1950 where the numbers are stamped loosely by hand. Here they are lined up very neatly. Would that be S&W or someone else?
In any event, I really like this little revolver and the way it feels in my hand.
P.S. can someone please remind me of the special character to search the Ship Date Request forum for a range of serial numbers?
...Ben
