Serial # on cyl.
- Thread starter vrichard
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Muley Gil
US Veteran
Sure looks like a SN to me. But I consider that the rear of the cylinder.
Well, this is particularly odd.
First of all, it isn't from 1951. It is a J frame Model 34-1 .22/32 Kit Gun from 1972 or 1973.
Second, it is extremely rare to find the serial number on the rear face of the cylinder on a revolver this late in the game. It just goes to show that you can "never say never" about S&W revolvers. An oddity shows up from time to time.
One weird fact here is the absence of the M on the cylinder. In this location they usually put the full serial number when they put one there at all.
First of all, it isn't from 1951. It is a J frame Model 34-1 .22/32 Kit Gun from 1972 or 1973.
Second, it is extremely rare to find the serial number on the rear face of the cylinder on a revolver this late in the game. It just goes to show that you can "never say never" about S&W revolvers. An oddity shows up from time to time.
One weird fact here is the absence of the M on the cylinder. In this location they usually put the full serial number when they put one there at all.
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I've seen serial numbers-minus letters- on cylinders of S&Ws returned to the factory for service, but they're usually under the extractor.
Yes. That location lasted longer than those on the cylinder and the barrel flat.
Igiveup
Member
Well, I just had to check mine out and there is no sn on the cylinder, just on the butt of the frame, for whatever it is worth.
Alk8944
US Veteran
In that time frame, when a gun was sent to the factory for repair including re-finish, the SN would be hand-stamped on the barrel flat and rear face of the cylinder to make sure the major components got back where they belonged. Is there a service date stamped under the left stock?
Your Model 34-1 was most likely reworked during manufacture and the serial number was stamped on the rear surface of the cylinder to ensure it was kept with the correct parts. A common practice by S&W after the Soft Fitting operation was eliminated in May 1957 and the serial number was no longer stamped on the barrel and cylinder. I have seen this on quite a few Model 29s over the years (without the S being stamped, just the number). This is assuming the revolver was not returned for service.
Bill
Bill
My Model 60 (Ser. # R### on the butt) was purchased new in the late 60s. It also has a 5 digit number stamped on the cylinder. Created a problem with one of my agency’s firearms’ officers. Every time he collected serial numbers of guns carried on duty by agents, he would refuse to believe that the R, followed by 3 numbers, was the serial number. He always assumed/insisted that it was the 5 digit number. I didn’t bother arguing with him as most of the guys in the office characterized him as a knucklehead........and he also happened to be a close friend of the agent in charge.
Attached are photos of cylinder and portion of butt.
Attached are photos of cylinder and portion of butt.
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My nickel 34-1 that dates to '69 production does not have anything stamped on the cylinder except the "N"...
Now my pre 36 snub that dates to '56 production has the full serial number stamped on the rear of the cylinder and the underside of the barrel as well as on the butt of the gun.
Now my pre 36 snub that dates to '56 production has the full serial number stamped on the rear of the cylinder and the underside of the barrel as well as on the butt of the gun.
