Use of S&W revolvers by Australian Forces

[dhartz]

effects,

I just came across this old post hope you will see my reply

On Australian Enfield rifles .the number, in this case "3" stands for the 3rd military district and the rest is the number assigned to that weapon within the military district.

I don't know if it applies the revolvers as well as rifles.

By the way, I have a S&W, similar to yours, with the number 3 over 585 and a serial number of 7512xx

 

[Retired W4]

Great pictures. I obtained an Australian Victory model that went through FTR in the mid 50's. I bought it at a gun show in the DFW area in the mid 90's and just had it to the range this past week. All matching number except for the grip panels and it still shoots well. It's a great piece of history that I am proud to own. During my tour in RVN I visited the Aussie compound near Vung Tau a couple times and had the opportunity to fly them around a few time as well. My thanks go out to our friends for their service in country.

 

[opoefc]

John Witty, You have a sharp eye. That holster of Jimmy Van Fleet's is indeed an Audley. Ed.

 

[PJGP]

No, strangely enough it doesnt have US property marks. It is a c.1940s M&P in 38/200. It has a 5" barrel and is blued. The serial number is 7883XX so pretty certain it was a Lend Lease....just a very early one. Mike

I am a bit over three years late with the following comment!

Clearly not a Lend Lease gun, but one of the 8000 supplied direct from S&W to Oz in January 1941.

Peter

 

[tekarra]

Interesting stuff, thanks for posting.

 

[gordonrick]

FWIW - my Pre-victory, SN 760659, shipped on 7 May 1941 as part of that Australian contract (per Jinks). No proof or acceptance markings at all.

 

[AlanDavid]

The 3 is for the third military district being Victoria, the number underneath as stated in a previous post is the rack number or the number for that rifle or pistol within the third military district.
Regards
AlanD
Sydney

 

[.455_Hunter]

Great guns!

As a young teen, I remember lusting over these .38's listed in the Navy Arms fliers in the late 80's and early 90's. I think they were $125.