Model 48 Questions

[HughD1]

I bought a Model 48-2 while on vacation. It is clearly marked 48-2 but the serial number dates it to 1974. I assume it is actually a dash three that was marked incorrectly. Am I correct in this assumption? I am happy with it either way. It has the lazy ampersand on the barrel if that helps date it. It checked off two boxes for me . I didn’t have a 48 or one with an 8 3/8 inch barrel. Thank you for your help!

Hugh

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[JP@AK]

HughD1

There is one way to tell for certain. Look at the screw in the rear sight leaf. If it is directly above the barrel/cylinder gap, the revolver is a 48-2. If that screw is offset from the gap, it is a -3.

 

[glenncal1]

There are many posts about incorrect (or lack of) dash numbers on Model 48's. Much speculation about why the 48 seems to lead the league in this category. I have a 4" that should be a dash 3 but is labeled as a no dash. Another S&W mystery.

 

[larryofcc]

I have 5 M48's. 4 are no dash and one is a dash 3. One of the no dash is a late 1961 model. I would think this would have been a dash 1 or dash 2.
I don't know why I have 5. I have never shot any one of them. Big Larry

 

[Truckman]

One of the no dash is a late 1961 model. I would think this would have been a dash 1 or dash 2.

Which way do the ejector rod threads turn to tighten, Larry - left or right?......Ben

 

[HughD1]

Is this offset enough to be a dash three?

Thanks! Hugh


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[larryofcc]

Which way do the ejector rod threads turn to tighten, Larry - left or right?......Ben

It's a 4 screw. No groove in the ejector rod. Big Larry

 

[Truckman]

It's a 4 screw. No groove in the ejector rod. Big Larry

Definitely a no dash then, no matter when it shipped......Ben

 

[LEO918]

Here is my Model 48-2 with 3-Ts.

 

[JP@AK]

First, no picture yet posted shows the fourth screw so we cannot be certain it is a four screw frame.

Second, I blew up the two photos of the complete revolver in post #1. I believe you can see the flat space (groove) in the knurled portion of the extractor rod. That indicates left hand threads.

Finally, in post #6, the sight leaf screw is above the barrel extension, not above the barrel/cylinder gap. That change came with the -3 variation. This would be consistent with the serial number from 1974.

These three factors taken together lead me to believe it is a Model 48-3, regardless of the stamp in the yoke cut. That, of course, depends on my being correct about it having a three screw frame and left hand threads on the extractor rod.

HughD1
Would you please post photos of the front of the trigger guard and a closeup of the knurled portion of the extractor rod? Those photos would clinch the model dispute.

 

[HughD1]

It is a three screw frame. I am at work. I will post the pictures you requested when I get home. Thank you for your knowledgeable response and patience.

Hugh


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[HughD1]

I think this is everything you requested. I am convinced it is a dash three. I appreciate your help. Thank you very much!

Hugh


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[JP@AK]

Yep. A Model 48-3.