Pre 29 or 29-2??

[bjs865]

I have a 44 magnum SN# S1660** and it's marked 29-2 on the crane. No SN# on the crane only 67258 and same# is under the grip. Any input?

 

[Ron Roehrick]

The 29-2 marking on the crane doesnt add up, your gun should be a 5 screw pre 29 with that serial number according to the Smith and Wesson catalog. I am sure others on this site with more knowledge will have some answers. Ron.

 

[71firebird400]

Does it have screws 4 and 5?

 

[4-Screw]

Please post some detailed pictures so our assessment can be as accurate as possible.

 

[bjs865]

Im new still trying to post pics. Its a 3 screw.

 

[410bore]

its not S2660** instead of S1660** by any chance?

 

[bjs865]

Nope. Its plain as day.

 

[rck281]

I would guess that S1660** was returned to S&W for repair and the frame was replaced with a 29-2 frame. They would have retained the original serial number.

 

[bjs865]

I think this may be the case. I think the pics will work.

 

[bjs865]

rck281

Rick,
Was that a common practice?

Brian

 

[Art Doc]

I have a 357 from 1956 that appears to have had a replacement frame around 1959. Gun has features not supposed to be found according to its serial.

Too bad the original stocks are not on your 44.

 

[Doc44]

S&W would retain the original serial number if the owner wanted that (most did not). From the photo, it appears the entire revolver was replaced with a new one and the old serial number retained. I assume there is no serial number stamped in the ejector rod shroud or on the rear surface (outer edge) of the cylinder.

The records should show two shipping dates for this serial number. One in 56/57 and one in the 70s. If you letter the revolver and explain everything about your 29-2 to Mr. Jinks in detail with photos, it might result in a very interesting factory letter.

The assembly number for your 29-2, 67258, dates it to late 1973.

Bill

 

[Ron Roehrick]

Dang Bill you really know your Smiths. Ron.

 

[Doc44]

Ron...I have studied and collected the 44 Magnum since the late 60s, but I am still learning new things regularly.

Bill

 

[Hondo44]

I have a 44 magnum SN# S1660** and it's marked 29-2 on the crane. No SN# on the crane only 67258 and same# is under the grip. Any input?

I think Bill has nailed it as usual. The serail number may also be in one other location, on the backside of the extractor star.
Just for fututre reference and not a critisizm, the Mod 29-2 is stamped on the frame "under the yoke". "Crane" is a Colt term.