Serial Numbers???

[Gabby-Bill]

I'm looking for some information about serial numbers on the frame and on the crane. Are there serial numbers on the crane and if so do they match the frame and if not why not?
Also is there a thread where I can find out when my M-19-3 was made?
Thanks in advance!
Gabby

 

[s&wchad]

This link to a sticky may help: To IDENTIFY your Gun >

The serial number is generally on the butt, but there are exceptions. Models from this era that came standard with target stocks will also have the serial number stamped on the frame in the yoke cut, next to the model number (Colt called it a crane, S&W called it a yoke). The number stamped on the yoke is an assembly number. You’ll find the same number on the side of the grip frame if you remove the stocks. You’ll also find the serial number stamped on the inside of the right stock panel (numeric portion only) and the back of the extractor.

Guns from the mid-1950’s and older have the serial number stamped on all the major parts (frame, barrel, cylinder, yoke, extractor and the right stock panel). This was before model numbers. The serial number on the yoke was stamped on the yoke arm and is only visible if you remove the cylinder or use a flashlight and peek through a chamber. These guns will also have an assembly number in the frame cut and the mating portion of the yoke.

The 19-3 was made from about 1967 to 1977. List your serial number and we can give you an approximate date.

 

[Doc44]

Your 19-3 will have the serial number stamped on the bottom of the grip frame and in the yoke cut (along with MOD. 19-3). The number stamped on the yoke, as stated by s&wchad, it an assembly number used to keep fitted parts together during manufacture. It also is stamped on the lower left hand corner of the grip frame and is different from the serial number.

Bill

 

[Gabby-Bill]

OK the serial # is
7K699** inside the crane cutout and on the bottom of the grip frame
Inside the crane cutout it also has the stamp mod 19-3
on the crane it's self there is stamped
92496, when I took the grips off I found 92495 on the left side of the frame.

i also found what I think is an inspectors stamp E1C inside the crane cutout above the MOD 19-3, and again on the grip frame on the left side. along with other stamps on both sides of the grip frame.
I need to know if it qualifies as a C&R pistol being over 50 years old?
Thanks in advance,
Gabby

 

[mh51]

Short answer is no.....probably made in 1975.

 

[Targets Guy]

A 19-3 with the s/n of 7K691xx shipped in May 1976. It had a 4" barrel. I am guessing yours shipped that same month and year.

 

[Gabby-Bill]

Thanks guys for the good info, I shipped it to its new owner today!
I got a good price for it, and since I wasn't doing anything with it I
decided it was time to let someone else enjoy it.
Now I can afford to get the M&P9c that I've drooled over for years,
that will be a gun I can get some use from,as an EDC and for target shooting.
I recently acquired an M&P Shield and really like it, it shoots easy and is so light after carrying my G26, that I hardly know it is there.
Gabby