Trying to ID

[mick123]

I'm trying to ID the model of this S&W 5-shot flat latch with 4" barrel. Its chambered in 38 S&W. I thought flat latches were only on Model 36 revolvers but the 36 didn't come with 4" barrel so here I am....

Thanks

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! That looks like a post-war .38 Regulation Police, pre-Model 33. Good-looking gun!

 

[Hondo44]

Welcome and that’s a beauty!

Guy nailed it. More specifically a “.38 S&W Regulation Police Model of 1953 NEW I Frame”. A 3 screw version. Built after 1955.

The J frames had flat latches from their beginning in 1950 until 1966. And the I frames from about 1952 until about 1961 when they were all turned into J frames.

 

[clang444]

FYI (just in case) - .38 S&W is not the same as .38 Special. It is shorter and wider.

 

[mick123]

Thanks guys, I spent a fair amount of time looking but couldn't figure it out.