What do I have here?

[bod@z]

No model#
Type: Hand ejector
Serial #: 91XX
Caliber: 38 S.&W. SPL.
Barrel Length: 1 7/8
Sights: Fixed
No lanyard ring
5 screws
Left to me by my step father, a WWII Veteran with quite a story

 

[ImprovedModel56Fan]

Where did you get the serial number from? Generally speaking, only the number on the butt of the grip frame counts. In some older guns, it may be reproduced elsewhere.

5-shot or 6-shot?

 

[gunnails]

No model#
Type: Hand ejector
Serial #: 91XX
Caliber: 38 S.&W. SPL.
Barrel Length: 1 7/8
Sights: Fixed
No lanyard ring
5 screws
Left to me by my step father, a WWII Veteran with quite a story

================================

Would love to hear the story, and some pictures are always appreciated.

 

[bod@z]

The serial number is actually in 3 places. Underneath the barrel above the ejector pin, on the rear of the cylinder and under the grip. It's a 5 shot.

 

[bananaman]

1st of all, Welcome to the FORUM! It is a pre 36, or a Chief Special (baby chief?) It probably looks similar to this with different grips & flat latch. Somebody will get close on the serial#. Bob

 

[bod@z]

================================

Would love to hear the story, and some pictures are always appreciated.

Not much detail on the story but the name General Patton was mentioned

 

[DCWilson]

Sounds like you have an early Chiefs Special. This model was introduced in 1951. The serial number you cited makes it likely yours was shipped in 1952.

The Chiefs Special was the first small-frame revolver in S&W's history that chambered the .38 Special round. Slightly more compact revolvers that chambered the .38 S&W cartridge had been available since the 1930s, but they faded from the scene when it became clear that you could get the superior .38 Special cartridge in a gun that was only an ounce or two heavier and a quarter-inch longer..