Post WW2 38 Special (LERK?)

[ronnymc204]

A friend of mine, who is a knife maker, called me over to his shop to show me something “special”. When I arrived, he presented me with an old Smith & Wesson .38 Special revolver, complete with diamond magna stocks.

I'm no expert, but I took a look and guessed it was a M&P .38 Special, likely manufactured between 1945 and 1947. The right side of the revolver was in surprisingly good condition for its age—around 77 to 78 years. However, the left side had developed some surface rust.

Since we were in his workshop, I asked if he had any 0000 steel wool and gun oil, which he did. After some light rubbing with the steel wool, the left side improved significantly.

My friend informed me that the revolver belonged to a widow friend of his who was looking to sell it. After examining the gun and its condition, I made her an offer, and she agreed! This marks my first acquisition of an M&P revolver, and I find it quite fascinating.

From my research, this particular model features the large ejector rod knob (LERK) and possibly has an older hammer design. All serial numbers match, including those on the grips. I noticed a stamp on the right side grip frame beneath the grips that resembles an "R," though it might be a lightly stamped "B." Additionally, there are "W" stamps on both the grip frame and yoke; however, my photo of the yoke came out blurry.

Are there any unusual features or characteristics that stand out for an early post-WWII M&P? Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

Yes, I know it needs a thorough cleaning!

 

[ronnymc204]

Additional photos

Here are 5 more photos.

 

[murphydog]

Nice gun! With serial number S828667, it is an early post-war .38 M & P, which fits with the larger extractor rod end.

Others will be along with more information, but I would guess it's age closer to 1947 than 1945.

 

[JP@AK]

Hi ronnymc204

It is a postwar .38 Military & Police revolver, as you suspected. There is nothing unusual about it, although it appears to be in pretty nice shape. It probably left the factory in May or June, 1946.

The barrel shaped knob is expected at that serial number. The Change Order to eliminate the knob and replace it with the knurled end of the extractor rod was issued on October 4, 1946. However, the change does not show up in production until about serial number S874000, on guns shipping mostly in February, 1947.

You are correct about the hammer. This one has the older long action. But that did not go away until March, 1948. So, the vast majority of the S prefix M&Ps had the long action.

The sharp shoulder Magna stocks are clearly original (serialized) and that style prevailed from 1946 until late 1952.

 

[DWalt]

It has been identified correctly as a post-war M&P. Steel wool is not recommended for use in removing light surface rust. Copper or brass wool is preferred. “Chore Boy” scouring pads are available at most supermarkets.