Model 12-2 serial # question

[king92]

Picked up a Model 12-2 from an acquaintance. The serial number that I found is on the yoke. I have seen another model 12 that had the serial number on the butt. Ive been doing some research on here and most serials are a letter followed by six numbers? Not sure about this one. The number reads as follows..


61639
D17

Any input is appreciated!

 

[-db-]

The numbers on the butt are the ones you want to post for info.

 

[king92]

What are the numbers on the yoke? Was the serial # on the butt on all model 12s?

 

[Alk8944]

king92,

The serial number on all S&W revolvers is on the butt. There is one exception and this is the Regulation Police Target and dates to the the 1915 period roughly.

The number in the yoke cut is an assembly number intended to keep the frame, sideplate and yoke together during finishing before final fitting.

A 12-2 will have a serial number with either a C or D prefix letter.

 

[murphydog]

The .22/32 Heavy Frame Targets (aka Bekeart Model) also have the front strap SN, but Alk8944 has it right about the assembly numbers.

 

[king92]

Thanks for the info guys. Guess I should have done my research before buying it, as it must have had the number filed, which isn't a good sign. If its too good to be true, I reckon it is.

 

[-db-]

Show us a photo of the butt of the gun, if you can. The frame on that particular model is anodized aluminum and it should be fairly easy to tell if that area has been tampered with.

 

[king92]

Here are a few pics. I got to looking and the "finish" on the butt peeled off quite easily.

 

[-db-]

Well, as you now know, someone pulled a fast one on you. It appears some of the stamping is still visible. You may be able to determine the serial if you carefully remove the rest of whatever coating that is. Try something like running a pencil lead over a sheet of paper covering the area to better see the numbers.

I'm not sure what the law is on a situation like this, maybe someone else will come along and explain what your next step should be.

 

[king92]

Few more. Looks like whoever tampered with it thought about cutting a right big chunk and even outlined the grips?

 

[king92]

Yeah saw me coming. Anyone with advice to what my next step should be?

 

[-db-]

That's a shame because the gun appears to be in decent shape otherwise. Whatever you do, keep the grips if you end up returning it to the seller or giving it to the cops (you need to find out the legality involved with possession of a firearm with the serial removed) or whatever happens. Those grips are made only for that particular model and you'd be able to sell them here quickly.

 

[king92]

It really is a beautiful gun and in great shape. We shall see. Thanks for all you help and information.