Smith And Wesson Revolver Serial Numbers Database Jun 2026

For collectors, shooters, and historians, Smith & Wesson (S&W) revolvers represent a pinnacle of American firearm manufacturing. With a history stretching back to the mid-19th century, identifying the exact age, model, and rarity of a Smith & Wesson revolver requires diving into the company's extensive serial numbering history.

By combining these resources and tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming an expert on Smith & Wesson revolver serial numbers. Happy collecting!

For over a century, S&W's approach to numbering was relatively fluid, evolving alongside changes in manufacturing and federal regulations. smith and wesson revolver serial numbers database

After 1957, S&W added dash numbers (e.g., Model 29-2, Model 19-3). These indicate engineering changes. Your serial number database will sometimes include the dash number in the range (e.g., "29-2 serials start at N100000"). Always check both.

Prior to about 1980, S&W used a purely numeric system for many models. After WWII, they introduced model numbers (e.g., Model 10, Model 19) in 1957. Later, they switched to three-letter prefixes (e.g., CEF1234). A database must account for these eras. For collectors, shooters, and historians, Smith & Wesson

S&W began using sequential numeric serials, often starting with specific prefixes (e.g., the "S" series for N-frames).

The official, legal serial number is stamped on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt). If your revolver has wraparound wood or rubber grips, you must remove them to see this number. Happy collecting

If you have a popular model, the following date ranges (derived from historical sources) can help you find your revolver's manufacturing year: 1969–1970: J1 - J99999 1973–1974: J100000 - J250000 1982: J915401 - 1J18600 K-Frame (Model 10, 15, 19, etc.) 1950-1952: K100,000 - K150,000 1962: K430,000 - K510,000 1970-1971: K999,999 – 1K1 N-Frame (Model 27, 28, 29, etc.) 1950-1952: S80,000 - S110,000 1969-1970: N1 - N50,000 How to Officially Date Your Smith & Wesson

Later models often use a 3-letter, 4-digit format (e.g., ABC1234). Quick-Reference Serial Number Guide 1950: Production began with number 1 (for specific models). 1952: Serial numbers 7369 - 21342.

It is easy to mistake an assembly number for a serial number. To find the official record: