S&W model 63 is this one of the first 100 pilot run?

[usmc25]

Hi guys I hope everyone is well. I walk into my local pawn shop and pick up this little S&W 22 revolver, not knowing anything about it but I couldn't resist the $219.95 price so I took it home. I have done a little research and by the serial #, it might be part of the first pilot run of 100. Can any model 63 expert confirm this for me? Thanks.

 

[Aussie Collector]

The writeup in scsw4th is confusing and a little contradictory.
It does appear you have one that is referred as first pilot test lot.
From the SCSW4th...
"The first 100 units were a pilot lot, s/ns M101699-M101798."
"63 1977 Introduction of M serial prefix at M99999"
"Very early test guns from the S&W collection with serial numbers of M36506, M35608, M35611, M35612, M35613 and M35614"
"Full production began at serial number M103577."

Deciphering this it could mean...
Test guns produced in the serial number range of M365XX
The first 100 production pilot run serial range M101699-M101798
Full production began at serial number M103577

How M99999 fits in we can only guess until someone more knowledgeable comes along.

 

[toddimusnimski]

I'm no expert but you are right, according to the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson 4th edition page 262-263, the first 100 units were a pilot lot, S/N M101699 - M101798.
Great find!

Todd

 

[Baxter6551]

The price is crazy ! When did you buy it - 1980 ? LOL. What a great find.

 

[ColbyBruce]

I paid less for mine; however, it had been thrown from a moving vehicle and required repairs. Congratulations.

 

[pasound]

Wow. A great find of what might be a rare revolver.

 

[Ranger514]

Quite a bargain.Enjoy!

 

[steelslaver]

No matter when it was made, getting a J frame 22lr for $220 is stealing. I would have been all over that.

 

[RubEric]

Just for reference, I paid $1k for this one!!!

 

[Truckman]

When did you buy it - 1980 ?

I have just GOT to get my time machine fixed!......Ben

 

[CH4]

That's a great price. Earlier today I found this nice 2 inch example at the Vegas show for $950 via a trade. Not sure what they're going for, but I've been looking for one for a long time, so I grabbed it. Seen several 2" blue/nickel 34s and 4" 63s in the $650 to $750 range, but never a 2" 63. What's the going rate on these stainless snubbies?

 

[H Richard]

I found this one in a local gun auction back in 2010. M1553xx, shipped in Feb 81. It originally had some larger aftermarket stocks, but I replaced with the Targets. I got it for $325 with the box.

 

[sfal7418]

Love it and the price
al

 

[austintexas]

2 Inchers

I Think the 2 inch M 63s were a special run for RSR
SWCA 892

 

[BC38]

$219?!? Were you wearing a mask?
The smooth target grips are probably worth nearly half that price.
SCORE!

 

[usmc25]

Thanks, guys it also came with a trigger shoe.