Model 60 Grips: Factory Goof Up?

[357magster]

Howdy! Just discovered that the serial number on the inside of the grips on my Model 60 is two numbers off from the serial number on the butt. Can I assume that these grips are original from the factory and that somebody there wasn't paying attention? (Installed on a Friday afternoon, perhaps?) Thanks.

 

[Cal44]

I have a M18-4 with grips one number off.

 

[sodacan]

You can assume they are original, and they might be, but from a collector's standpoint, they don't go to your gun.

 

[WCCPHD]

Was this Model 60 ever a law enforcement gun? If so that could explain the anomaly. When we had revolvers many of them were consecutive serial numbered guns and the armorers would service them en mass and they did not try to match the grips to the gun.

 

[WCCPHD]

Very interesting, WCCPHD. That thought never crossed my mind. Never considered getting this gun lettered, but wonder now if it might be worth it. Were Model 60's a common police issue back in 1979/80? Sure is a tiny little thing.

Some agencies issued them as back up/off duty guns or for administrators. My agency had 15 or 20 that were issued for "undercover" work. The NC State Highway Patrol had a number of nickel Model 36's for higher ranks when they issued the Model 19. I don't know if they bought Model 60's for that purpose after transitioning to the Model 66.