New (to me) 66-3

[S&Wforever]

Just found a 66-3 (2 1/2 in barrel) at the gun show today. Its in great shape. Love this gun. Traded a 386 Sc/s for it. Anyway, looking it over, I found an "F" stamped on the cylinder face. Have several S&W revolvers, but I don't know what the "F" stands for. New to the forum. Thanks in advance for any assistance. See ya, Ryan

 

[labworm]

I have exactly the same revolver, very nice balance etc. You find all kinds of markings on the frame, numbers, letters, they all mean something, but I sure don't know.

Sit tight, one of the experts will join in.

 

[Allen-frame]

Inspection marks.

During the process of machining and assembly Smith and Wesson revolvers go through many inspections, and ,accordingly ,are marked by the inspectors.

The marks you will see on a Smith revolver are; 1. the serial #. 2. the assembly #. and last, 3. inspectors marks , all over the gun.
And sometimes , if a gun has been shipped overseas to Belgium ,or, Germany for example you will find proof marks on the frame ,cylinder and barrel where the gun was inspected when entering the country.

Regards ,,,Allen Frame

 

[Wayne M]

Supposedly the "F" was added to the cylinder after the counterboring was eliminated from the charge holes. Why "F" instead of any other letter is anybodies guess.

 

[Sportsterguy]

Congrats on what I consider an outstanding trade! My 19 and 66, both snubs are my all time favorite S&W's.

Gotta buy the S&W Bible one of these days. The experts make it easy for us on these type of questions and I personally thank you all for your time.

R/

Roger