Model 60 Identification

[jasonritter]

Got my Grandpa's old Model 60 and wanted to get more info on it.

Under the yolk has MOD 60 (no other dashes). Then is has the assembly number. I know it says not to post it but there is a single "S" under the number, not sure if this is unique. (See photo)

On the bottom of the butt has the serial number 623### No letters or dashes or anything

On the barrel it is stamped 38 S. & W. SPL.

Thanks in advance!
Jason

 

[Green Frog]

Welcome to the S&W Forum. You have correctly identified your Model 60 as an early, no dash variant, the first stainless production model from S&W and a very desirable and versatile gun. The grips appear to be aftermarket faux mother of pearl that could have been added at any time. If the original grips were obtainable from your grandfather’s stuff, they would add to the inherent value if not to the family history.

One major selling point of the SS Models is their reduced need for cleaning and maintenance. If it functions properly (ask anyone who knows anything about S&Ws to give it a quick, no disassembly survey if you don’t feel comfortable doing so) then load it up with any factory 38 Specials and enjoy shooting it. Although it is approved for use with +P loads, it’s not worth the extra cost, recoil, and wear-and-tear on the gun or you to use them extensively. As a small gun with short barrel, there is a fairly short learning curve to get truly competent with it, but practice shooting is shooting, so by definition, FUN!

I’m sure others will come in with near exact date of shipping, original cost, current value, etc,etc, but I’ll quit here with congratulations on a fine gun and repeating my welcome.

Froggie

 

[dcopper]

Welcome to the Forum from Arkansas! Very nice piece of S&W History. My EDC is an S&W 60-7.

dcopper (aka) Larry

 

[murphydog]

Cool gun. My guess on its age (production year) is 1967.

Was your grandfather named Tex?