Numbers Printed on Model 14-4 Grips: Why are they there?

[357magster]

Any theories why these black numbers are on my 1980 vintage model 14-4 grips? The grips number to the gun (XXK7763). There must be a reason why S&W went to the trouble of stamping them on, but for the life of me I can't figure out why.

 

[usm1rifle]

Wow, I wish my bank balance was a number that big.

Sorry, no idea.

 

[Bekeart]

Testing the printer ?

 

[-db-]

I've seen this on stocks before. It's probably something the lumber supplier did and has nothing to do with S&W.

 

[loeman]

I've seen this on stocks before. It's probably something the lumber supplier did and has nothing to do with S&W.

Yes, this sounds like a very plausible explanation. I have never seen these markings before.

 

[MrG5122]

Testing the printer ?

I vote for this^^^^.

I am in the construction/cabinet/framing/millwork business and I've never seen anything like this.

 

[bluetopper]

I bet you are the only one with those grip numbers in black like that. Its got to be worth substantially more money.

 

[Bubba2014]

Years ago S&W put the guns serial number on the grips of all of their handguns. I don't know why, but they did.