From the founding of the company until World War II, Smith & Wesson used a simple, consecutive numeric system starting at 1 for each new model line.
What is the on the bottom of the grip? (You can replace the last two digits with "X" for privacy, e.g., K324XX or ABC12XX). What is the model number stamped inside the cylinder crane? What caliber is stamped on the side of the barrel? Share public link
: Numbers found inside the crane or yoke may sometimes be "assembly numbers" used during manufacturing and are not the official serial number. General Serial Number Patterns
S&W revolvers have undergone several changes in their serial numbering system over the years. Here's a brief overview:
The for an S&W revolver is always located on the bottom of the grip frame (the "butt") . Numbers found inside the frame when the cylinder is open are often "assembly numbers" used during manufacturing and are not valid for dating the gun. System Type Format Example Numeric Only 123456 Letter Prefix S123456 or K123456 Post-WWII (1940s–1970s) Triple-Alpha ABC1234 Mid-1980s to Present The "Database" and Research Tools smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database
Here is a quick guide to help you choose the best method for your needs:
Used for small, concealable J-frame "Snubnose" revolvers (e.g., Model 36 Chiefs Special, Model 60).
The system started with the "AAA" prefix in 1980, "AAB" in subsequent months, and has progressed forward alphabetically through the alphabet over the last several decades. 3. Smith & Wesson Serial Number Database & Date Charts
Using a is powerful, but it has limitations. Be aware of these traps: From the founding of the company until World
This is where most people get confused. S&W did not serialize sequentially across all models. For example, in 1955, a K-frame revolver (Model 15) might have serial number K300000 while an N-frame (Model 27) had serial number S150000. A good database separates by frame size and model family .
Disclaimer: Serial number research is for historical interest. For legal advice regarding the transfer or status of a firearm, consult the ATF or a licensed attorney. Laws regarding antique firearms (pre-1899) vary by state.
Note: Dating a Smith & Wesson revolver using generic lists is a general guide and not always exact. Your gun may actually be a year off from what is listed. The precise shipping date, as "lettered," can be several years off depending on the model.
Before you can search any database or reference guide, you need to locate the actual serial number. Do not confuse the "Model Number" stamped inside the yoke (e.g., "Model 10-5") with the actual serial number. What is the model number stamped inside the cylinder crane
Standard for large N-frame revolvers (e.g., Model 27, Model 29).
If there is a single most important resource for identifying and dating any Smith & Wesson firearm, it is the by Jim Supica and Richard Nahas. This is the reference bible for collectors, often referred to as the "SCSW". It is now in its 5th edition and is widely considered the most authoritative and comprehensive guide available to the public.
Determining the age and history of a Smith & Wesson revolver requires navigating a complex system of serial numbers that has evolved significantly over 150 years. Unlike some manufacturers, Smith & Wesson does not provide a simple, automated online lookup tool for all historical firearms. Instead, collectors and owners typically rely on a combination of reputable books, historical services, and enthusiast-maintained databases. Where to Find the Serial Number
Active collector communities (such as the Smith & Wesson Forum ) host crowdsourced databases. Members voluntarily log their serial numbers alongside verified factory letters. This allows you to find a firearm shipped within a few numbers of yours to pinpoint your exact production month. 5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)