Model 63 4" with round butt?

[LWCmdr45]

I know that by the mid-'90s, Smith had standardized on a round butt for its 4"+ barreled centerfire revolver frames. Did they ever offer a pre-lock Model 63 in round butt with the 4" barrel? (I know the round butt was offered with the 2" barrel, but they're not my cup of tea.) I've been looking for a 4" RB Model 63 for a while and haven't come across one. (I know the current 5" version has a round butt, but I can't get past that @#%&* lock, even on a non-SD rimfire.) I want the round butt so my wife can get in some inexpensive practice with the CTC laser grips normally worn on her Centennial.

If the answer is "no," I'll just need to cut a square butt to round butt dimensions. Will that intrude into the serial number on the butt? (There's still another SN on the frame under the crane, right? So, I should still be good to go.)

TIA!

Steve

 

[Doc Watson]

Yes, they did offer it, right before they quit making them, I had one but trade it away, due to lead spitting, which for some reason every 63, I have ever owned has done.

 

[murphydog]

The SCSW lists the 4" RB model 63 being made from 1994-1998, as Doc Watson noted.

 

[LWCmdr45]

Thanks, guys. My quest will continue!

I meant to stipulate I had noted the RB 4" mentioned in the SCSW. But, after over a year of unsuccessful searching, I just wanted to be sure it wasn't a typo. It's good to hear from someone that's actually seen some "in the flesh."

Thanks again!

Steve

 

[smitholdtimer]

LWCmdr45

To address your question concerning the "other" serial number on the Model 63, I am almost certain that the only one you will find will be on the butt of the frame, the number inside the crane is an assembly number if I remember my lessons correctly. I have been wrong so many times but I can't seem to refrain from posting a reply, someone please correct me if I'm wrong.