S&W DA.38 Second Model Questions

[thomask]

Hey guys, I recently bought a S&W second model .38 DA barrel and cylinder all #s matching 15787 on ebay for cheap. I was wondering why the last patent date is reissue July 25 1871? I have seen earier ones with th last patent of of 1880 as my original one is. Its most def a.38 da with the old style cylinder.

 

[glowe]

Only the 1st Model was supposed to have the 1871 patent dates. 2nd Model has 1880 date last. That serial number indicates the gun is a 2nd Model, but the barrel/cylinder assembly was the same so left-over barrels could have been used on the 2nd Model until inventory was gone. The serial number on the barrel can be found by looking at the rear or the top strap between the "ears" and top latch.

 

[thomask]

yep, its 15787. cylinder, latch and barrel all the same.