MODEL 29 4 SCREW

[jps1935]

I am looking at a model 29 no dash 4 screw.It is serial numbered on the cly face. But not on the barrel. Is this normal or could it have been rebarreled? I ask because I have seen other pre 29s just the other way numbered on the barrel but not the cly. thanks Jens

 

[jps1935]

I am looking at a model 29 no dash 4 screw.It is serial numbered on the cly face. But not on the barrel. Is this normal or could it have been rebarreled? I ask because I have seen other pre 29s just the other way numbered on the barrel but not the cly. thanks Jens

 

[Guest]

Probably normal. Without a serial number reference, it's just guessing. The practice of numbering the barrels ended during the 4 screw days...... Of course, it could have been rebarreled as well, without a factory letter confirming how it was shipped it's all guesswork.

 

[Allen-frame]

Jens ,when inspecting a revolver, good light and a good pair of glasses

are necessary.

Does the bluing or nickel finish on the frame and barrel match closely??

On a 50 odd year old gun anything is possible.

Common sense and a very close inspection will probably be your best tools in this case.

Can you take pictures in good light and post them???
Anything other than visual is just guessing.

Regards ,,Al

 

[jps1935]

This model 29 I am looing at is in the 190xxx range. I was suprised at seeing a serial number on the cyl face.I have a pre 29 in the 174xxx range and there is no serial on the cly face. I also looked at a 5 screw pre 29 in the 167xxx range it did not have the serial number on the cyl face and at this time I just cant rember if there were any other places with a serial number.I will have to dig mine out look at it close then go back and take a another look. maybe I can get him to take the grips off for inspection.Jens

 

[Doc44]

SmithNut is correct that ROUTINE numbering of the barrel and cylinder stopped around the time the 4-screw frame was introduced in 1957. However, more cylinders continued to be numbered than barrels that are rarely numbered. I would guess the Model 29 you are looking at is correct.

Why this was done is anyone's guess, but was probably just the preference of those S&W employees assembling guns on a particular day or shift. I consider it to be a "manufacturing variation"

.

Bill