S&W Revolver Dating Advice Pt 1: 5-, 4-, and 3-Screw Guns

Published on February 16, 2024
Duration: 0:50

This video provides a method for dating Smith & Wesson K-frame and N-frame revolvers based on the number of screws present on the frame. It details the historical removal of screws, correlating 5-screw models to pre-1955 production, 4-screw to 1955-1961, and 3-screw to post-1961. A key identification tip is to check for a screw hidden under the grips.

Quick Summary

You can date Smith & Wesson K-frame and N-frame revolvers by counting the screws on the frame. 5-screw models are pre-1955, 4-screw models are from 1955-1961, and 3-screw models are post-1961. Remember to check under the grips for a hidden screw.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Dating S&W Revolvers by Screw Count
  2. 00:11Identifying Screw Locations on Frame
  3. 00:18Production Timeline: Screw Removal History
  4. 00:27Dating Guide: 5, 4, & 3-Screw Eras
  5. 00:42The Hidden Screw Tip for Accurate Dating

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I date a Smith & Wesson revolver?

You can date Smith & Wesson K-frame and N-frame revolvers by counting the screws on the frame. 5-screw models are pre-1955, 4-screw models are from 1955-1961, and 3-screw models are post-1961. Remember to check under the grips for a hidden screw.

What does a 5-screw S&W revolver indicate?

A 5-screw Smith & Wesson revolver indicates it was manufactured before 1955. This early production run featured all five screws on the frame, which were later reduced in subsequent manufacturing years.

When were 4-screw S&W revolvers made?

Smith & Wesson revolvers with 4 screws on the frame were produced during the transitional period between 1955 and 1961. This era saw the removal of the first screw near the top of the side plate.

How do I identify a 3-screw S&W revolver?

A 3-screw Smith & Wesson revolver signifies production after 1961. By this time, two screws had been eliminated from the frame design compared to earlier models, making them identifiable by their simpler screw configuration.

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