What Does The "A" After A Model Number Mean?

[justicetyme]

I recently purchased a Performance Center 627 Model #170210A.
I went to a gun show yesterday with three I wanted to sell and ended up trading them for a NIB Performance Center Model 629 #170135A.
I have seen PC gun end labels both with and without the "A".
I asked Google what the "A" meant and he said:

"The primary difference between a Smith & Wesson 17035 and a 17035A lies in a slight modification to the trigger mechanism. The 17035A typically has a "smooth pull" trigger, meaning the trigger action is slightly more refined and smoother compared to the standard 17035.
Elaboration:
While both are technically Smith & Wesson 17035 pistols, the "A" designation indicates a slight update or modification. In this case, the "A" generally refers to a change in the trigger mechanism, making it smoother and potentially less heavy than the standard 17035.
Key differences:

• Trigger Pull:
• The 17035A has a smoother trigger pull compared to the standard 17035, often perceived as a more refined and potentially more accurate firing experience.
• Trigger Weight:

The "A" model may have a slightly lighter trigger pull weight, making it easier to initiate a shot."

Since all PC guns of the same model should be equal I have my doubts that Google knows what he's talking about.
What say ye folks?
Thanks
James

 

[Dave686]

What say ye folks?

I suspect S&W is playing fast and loose with the "Performance Center" name just to get more money, and has been for a long time. I also suspect if my PC gun was ever even in the "Performance Center", it never got off the cart. I will still buy S&W's I think they make the best handguns there are. But I'll never buy a PC gun again. I think they just turned the marketing kids loose on this.

 

[bigggbbruce]

I have my doubts that Google knows what he's talking about.
What say ye folks?

I'd like to know how you get a male response.

I'm always cussin' out the Google female

 

[reddog81]

Don’t believe AI. I have no idea what the difference is but I know AI will basically make stuff up if it doesn’t know the answer. It can be very wrong regarding basic questions at times.

 

[Lou_the_welder]

Model differences were needed due to the different drop test requirements some states have.
Google is wrong.

Smith and wesson had to make small differences in the models to be able to pass the drop testing. Like California.

Below: courtesy of the California DOJ. Roster of approved firearms.

 

[s&wchad]

I use google regularly, checking out new members.
If I could turn off their "AI", I'd do it in a heartbeat.

 

[Retired W4]

There seems to be some confusion regarding Model designations and Product Codes.

Then there is 170135 Vs. 17035. I remember the old computer adage, garbage in, garbage out. It still applies.

Looking through SCSW, 5th, Product Code 170135 is a MODEL 629-5 (or-06 in 2010), 2 5/8" Defensive. Of course there is no Product Code 17035 listed in SCSW. Then there is this from the same publication; "Note: Five-digit codes are listed on individual models and not duplicated here in the Performance Center master listing."

It's no wonder AI/Google is confused.

 

[Jon651]

Don’t believe AI. I have no idea what the difference is but I know AI will basically make stuff up if it doesn’t know the answer. It can be very wrong regarding basic questions at times.

AI basically scrapes info from the web - and we all know that if it's on the internet then it must be true!

To me, the only difference between AI and a basic search engine is that AI will gather the requested info from several locations on the web then compile it into a plain-language result. It's a 50/50 chance that whatever AI you are using will actually cite its sources, and probably even less that it will provide a link so you can verify the veracity of that particular fact - a lesson that more than a few lazy lawyers have already learned the hard way!

 

[Bullet Bob]

An "A" after the serial number means it used to belong to Fonzie.