Jim Malone
Member
I am wondering if anyone can share with me any additional information about the history of the AIP (Automatic Improvement Program). Specifically I am wondering when the first AIP pistols were produced. My understanding from the Standard Catalog of S&W is that production may have begun with AIP0001, but that this is not confirmed as of the printing of the Catalog, 4th Edition. Additionally, I have not learned when AIP pistol production actually began.
I have seen Spec Ord dates on AIP pistol boxes that suggest pistols were being boxed, and presumably shipped, in the fall of 1988. I have also read on this forum that the AIP pistols were announced by S&W in the fall of 1988. So when were they actually first made? Summer of '88? Spring of '88? It may seem silly or inconsequential, or like hair splitting, I know. But I am just curious if anyone knows when the 3rd Gen (AIP) pistols were first born in '88. Thank you for your help!
I have seen Spec Ord dates on AIP pistol boxes that suggest pistols were being boxed, and presumably shipped, in the fall of 1988. I have also read on this forum that the AIP pistols were announced by S&W in the fall of 1988. So when were they actually first made? Summer of '88? Spring of '88? It may seem silly or inconsequential, or like hair splitting, I know. But I am just curious if anyone knows when the 3rd Gen (AIP) pistols were first born in '88. Thank you for your help!
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