Smith Model 34-1

[RetiredUC]

I purchased a Smith & Wesson Model 34 some time ago and was hoping that some kind person could possibly provide an approximate date of manufacture for this revolver.
It is stamped Mod 34-1. The serial number is M149615 and it is chambered in .22 Long Rifle. It has a 4" barrel, adjustable sights and a nickel finish. Just a really nice small revolver in a useful chambering.
The double action is pretty typical from what I have found on the J frame, owned a couple through the years, probably like most who frequent this site. Has anyone found a revolver smith who can reduce the pull weight a bit yet maintain reliability? The gun is light enough that I find that the factory pull makes it a bit challenging to hit targets unless they are somewhat close.
Thanks for the feedback!

 

[armorer951]

Likely 1980 date of manufacture. The "M" serial prefix began in 1969, starting with M1.

I have a 2" M34-1 that is marked M130649. I'd like to have a 4" also but haven't been able to find one.

The .22 rimfire S&W J-frames are a challenge in terms of spring tension and reliability. It helps to keep the extractor, the area behind the extractor, and the chambers as clean as possible so that loaded rounds seat fully in the chambers.

Also, finish reaming the chambers may help with reliability.

It would do no harm to experiment with a slightly lighter mainspring, and/or rebound slide spring available from Wolff to help with trigger pull weight. Be sure to be careful concerning the single action pull weight when changing out the internal springs though. Most of the 34's that I have seen have very light SA pull weights (2.25 - 2.5 lbs) out of the box, which will only get lighter if you decide to change the OEM springs to aftermarket ones.








Carter

 

[RetiredUC]

Thank you very much for the information, Carter, nice to know it's approximate age.

Not too long after I purchased my Model 34 I reamed the charge holes (very carefully) as it was quite difficult to extract empty cases if more than a couple of cylinders full had been fired. You are certainly correct regarding the weight of the single action trigger pull, it feels like it could easily be less than 3 lbs.

More than likely I'll keep hunting for a revolver smith to try and lighten / smooth the double action. Can you tell me if you know the names of the grips on your Model 34? I remember seeing them back in the day but don't know how scarce they are on the second hand market. They are much more handsome (and look to be more hand filling) then the Altamont grips I purchased for my 34.

 

[armorer951]

I've always called them "banana" style combat grips. I'm sure that there is an official name for them but I'm not sure what it is.

I see them on Ebay from time to time.


Carter