Summary of info on Pre 45 postal 22 M&P

[Bearhunter 500]

First a big thank you to all the information the the group has shared. To summerize the information. This is a 4 screw ( 3 side plate 1 in front of frame ) Pre 45 postal m&p 22lr. Someone mentioned that the grips are incorrect. Does anyone have a date of mfg? any information on the strike thur of the Serial #? Do you all think this is a shooter or a safe queen? any idea on value?
Thanks for all the help

 

[VM]

Thanks for the pictures.............interesting gun!
Your grips date from 1920-1929. Your serial number dates from 1954-56. I don't like the overstamp but I have a salesman sample gun from S&W and the serial number was bombarded/destroyed somewhat similar............so who knows??
I would invest $50 in a factory letter. I would not use it as a shooter if it were mine. I can't help you on value, but I've seen high prices on them over the years.
Look on the face of the cylinder, underside flat of barrel and under ejector star and see if you see that same serial number any other place.
Again, Cool Revolver!

 

[s&wchad]

I don't believe the obfuscated markings on the butt were part of the serial number. The prefix and numbers were typically stamped with spacing between, just like yours. I suspect it was department or agency markings or a rack number (not likely). Get a letter, cool gun!

There seems to be finish in the overstamps, which makes me wonder if it's been factory refinished (nice job if it is). Any chance you could remove the left stock and photograph that side of the grip frame?