Smith And Wesson Revolver Serial Numbers Database Jun 2026

: For verification, you should find the same number in three other places, particularly on older revolvers:

The absolute authority for any S&W serial number is the bottom of the grip frame.

These larger-frame service revolvers used a letter-prefix system.

Smith & Wesson did not manufacture and ship firearms in exact serial number order. Frames were often produced in batches, stored in inventory, and then assembled and shipped out over a period of years. This means two guns with serial numbers only a few digits apart could have been shipped years apart.

Ordering a "Letter of Authenticity" for an exact factory ship date and destination. S&WHF Letter Process smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database

Often referred to by collectors as the "Bible" of S&W, this book contains exhaustive lists of serial number ranges, dates of manufacture, model changes, and historical background. If you are serious about identifying your collection, purchasing this book is the best investment you can make. The Factory Letter: The Ultimate Authenticity Check

On modern revolvers (post-1957), opening the cylinder reveals the model number (e.g., "MOD 19-3") and often a assembly number. Warning: The number stamped inside the crane area on older guns is often an internal assembly number, not the serial number. Understanding Smith & Wesson Serial Number Systems

Because Smith & Wesson does not host a free, searchable digital database on their website, collectors rely on compiled historical factory shipping data. The definitive print database is the .

: This is the most authoritative location. Look at the bottom of the grip frame. If you have wrap-around wood or rubber grips, you must remove them to see it. : For verification, you should find the same

Authored by , this is the undisputed "bible" of S&W collecting. It contains the most complete serial number tables, date ranges, and model history available. 2. S&W Historical Foundation Database

A quick way to date guns is to look for the "pinned barrel" and "recessed cylinder." S&W largely phased these out around 1982. 5. Why Research Your Serial Number? Dating the Revolver: Knowing exactly when it was made.

Around the time of World War II, S&W began introducing alphabetical prefixes to distinguish different frames and eras:

Used for small, concealable J-frame "Snubnose" revolvers (e.g., Model 36 Chiefs Special, Model 60). Frames were often produced in batches, stored in

Identify if it is a J (small), K (medium), L (medium-large), or N (large) frame.

A pre-war, low-number revolver is worth significantly more than a higher-number or refinished counterpart.

If a star is stamped next to the serial number, it typically indicates the firearm was returned to the factory for a major service or refinishing. Date Codes:

Your Smith and Wesson revolver's serial number can provide valuable information about your firearm, including: