Numbers Install | Smith And Wesson Model 195 Serial

If you are trying to date a specific firearm, it is important to look at the serial number stamped on the butt of the grip frame (and often on the crane or cylinder).

If you own a classic Smith & Wesson N-frame revolver from the early 1950s—often called the "Model 195" by collectors referencing the 1950 Target or Army model—you understand the value of proper maintenance. Unlike modern CNC-machined pistols, these post-war revolvers require a nuanced understanding of serial number locations, hand-fitting, and timing before you install any new parts.

This article covers:

Since we are dealing with a Pre-Model 24 (.44 Special) or Pre-Model 22 (.45 ACP/AR) , you will see an "S" or "N" prefix in the serial number on the butt.

Here is the approximate dating chart for these Post-War N-Frames (1950-1957):

| Serial Number Prefix | Approximate Year | Model Designation | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | S 62,489 – S 75,000 | 1950 | Early 1950 Target/Military | | S 75,001 – S 85,999 | 1951 | 1950 Production | | S 86,000 – S 94,999 | 1952 | Late "Pre-24/22" | | S 95,000 – S 102,999 | 1953 | 4-screw frame intro | | S 103,000 – S 139,999 | 1954-1955 | | | S 140,000 – S 175,999 | 1956 | Late Pre-Model production | | S 176,000 – S 181,999 | 1957 | End of Pre-Model era |

Note: In 1957, S&W switched to model numbers (e.g., Model 24, Model 22). If your gun is a true "Model 195," it is likely a 1950 or 1951 gun with a worn stamp.

The Model 19 is a robust firearm, but it has a known characteristic regarding the forcing cone. Extensive use of light-bullet .357 Magnum loads (110 grain) can cause cracking at the forcing cone (the entrance to the barrel). Most experts recommend using .38 Special ammunition for practice and 158 grain .357 Magnum loads for duty/carry to prolong the life of the revolver.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes. If you have a firearm with a mechanical issue, it is highly recommended that you consult a qualified gunsmith.

The Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 is a celebrated .357 Magnum revolver produced in the early to mid-1980s. While there is no official "Model 195," users often use this term to refer to the -5 engineering revision of the classic K-frame Model 19. Locating the Serial Number

For any Smith & Wesson revolver, including the Model 19-5, the "serial number of record" is definitively located on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt).

Obstructions: If your revolver has oversized wood target grips or rubber wrap-around grips, they will likely cover the serial number. You must carefully remove the grip panels to view it.

Alternate Markings: You may see numbers stamped inside the frame in the yoke area (visible when the cylinder is open). On a Model 19-5, this area typically displays the model number (e.g., "MOD 19-5") and "assembly numbers," which are internal factory codes and not the legal serial number.

Format: Model 19-5 serial numbers typically follow a triple-alpha-numeric format (e.g., "AUS8466"), which Smith & Wesson adopted in 1980. Installation: Grips and Parts

If you are looking to "install" components related to the serial number area, it most likely involves changing the grips or accessing the internal frame.

Grip Removal: Ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. Use a properly fitted screwdriver to remove the grip screw. If the grips are stuck, do not pry them; instead, lightly rap the back of the grip frame with a plastic or rubber mallet to vibrate them loose.

Accessing Internal Frames: To view date codes sometimes stamped on the side of the grip frame, you must remove the sideplate. This requires removing the three screws on the right side of the frame. Note: S&W sideplates are precision-fitted; tapping the frame rather than prying the plate is the standard method for removal.

Reassembly: When reinstalling grips, ensure they do not pinch any internal springs (like the mainspring). Tighten the screw until snug, but avoid over-tightening, which can crack wood panels. Verifying Manufacture Date

Because Smith & Wesson used overlapping serial ranges for decades, there is no single public online database for precise dating. To accurately date your Model 19-5: Smith & Wesson Serial Numbers

Smith & Wesson Model 1950 Serial Numbers Installation: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Smith & Wesson Model 1950, also known as the M&P (Military & Police) revolver, is a legendary firearm that has been in production since the early 20th century. With a rich history spanning over a century, the Model 1950 has undergone various design changes, improvements, and serial number installations. This paper aims to provide a detailed overview of the serial number installation process for the Smith & Wesson Model 1950.

Serial Number Range and Production Dates

The Smith & Wesson Model 1950 was produced from 1949 to 1967, with a total production run of approximately 325,000 units. The serial number range for the Model 1950 falls between K100 and K84098. However, some Model 1950s were produced with a "J" prefix serial number, which indicates a transition period between the Model 1947 (J frame) and the Model 1950. smith and wesson model 195 serial numbers install

Serial Number Location and Format

The serial number on the Smith & Wesson Model 1950 is typically located on the frame, under the crane (where the cylinder meets the frame), and on the cylinder. The serial number format consists of a combination of letters and numbers. The early models (K100-K32000) have a simple numeric serial number, while later models (K32001-K84098) feature a serial number with a single letter prefix (K).

Decoding Serial Numbers

Smith & Wesson used a coding system to decipher the manufacturing date and model information. The serial number can be broken down into several sections:

Example Serial Number Breakdown

Verifying Authenticity and Production Date

To verify the authenticity and production date of a Smith & Wesson Model 1950, you can use the following methods:

Conclusion

The Smith & Wesson Model 1950 is a classic firearm with a rich history. Understanding the serial number installation process and decoding system can help collectors and enthusiasts verify the authenticity and production date of their Model 1950. This comprehensive guide provides a reference for determining the production date and verifying the legitimacy of a Smith & Wesson Model 1950.

Recommendations

For collectors and firearm enthusiasts:

Limitations

This paper provides a general overview of the serial number installation process for the Smith & Wesson Model 1950. However, due to variations in production and exceptions, it is essential to consult additional resources and experts for specific information.

Future Research Directions

Further research is recommended to:

In the late 1980s, the "Model 195" didn’t exist as a single unit, but the Smith & Wesson Model 19-5

—the fifth major engineering variation of the legendary .357 Combat Magnum—was a centerpiece of American law enforcement.

Arthur, a retired detective, sat at his workbench, the blued steel of a 19-5 reflecting the dim garage light. He was looking for its history, a task that required finding its unique identity. The Search for the Identity Arthur knew that on these mid-80s K-frames, the official serial number was always stamped on the bottom of the butt of the frame

. He flipped the revolver over, seeing a string of three letters followed by four numbers—the "triple-alpha" format S&W adopted in 1980. Curious, he swung out the cylinder. Stamped behind the

(the crane), he saw the designation "MOD 19-5". Near it were other numbers, but Arthur knew those were just assembly numbers

used by factory workers to keep parts together during the "soft fitting" process. A Relic of Change

His particular 19-5 was a transition piece. Unlike the older "pinned and recessed" versions his father carried, this model had a non-pinned barrel non-recessed cylinder

, changes made starting in 1982 to streamline production. Yet, it retained the classic hammer-mounted firing pin

, a feature that would eventually vanish in later "dash" models.

Determining the production date of a Smith & Wesson Model of 1950

(the precursor to the Model 24 and Model 26) involves identifying the frame size and checking specific serial number ranges. Prior to 1957, Smith & Wesson primarily used names rather than model numbers, and the Model of 1950 was produced on the large Locating the Serial Number The "serial number of record" is stamped on the bottom of the grip frame If you are trying to date a specific

. Any letters appearing here are part of the serial number and must be included for accurate dating. Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Other markings to be aware of include: Yoke Area:

On some later revolvers, the model number (e.g., "MOD 24") may be stamped here. Assembly Numbers:

Frequently found on the yoke or inside the frame, these were used only to keep hand-fitted parts together during manufacturing and are the serial number. Secondary Locations: Older S&W models may also have the serial number on the bottom of the barrel rear of the cylinder Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Serial Number Ranges for Model 1950 (N-Frame) The Model of 1950 revolvers, which included the .44 Target .44 Military .45 Target , typically used the "S" prefix or the later "N" prefix Production Year Range Serial Number Range (Approximate) 1946 – 1947 S62,489 – S71,999 1948 – 1952 S72,000 – S89,999 (Transition Period) 1954 – 1956 S103,000 – S165,000 1957 (Model Numbering Begins) S165,001 – S183,999 Key Variants: The .44 Military variant of the 1950 Model. The .44 Target version of the 1950 Model. The .45 Target (Light Barrel) variant of the 1950 Model. Evolution and Model Numbering

, Smith & Wesson transitioned from names to numerical designations. If your revolver is stamped with a model number like "24" or "26" behind the yoke, it was likely produced after this date. Engineering changes are indicated by a dash number

(e.g., 24-1), which signifies a specific update like a thread direction change in the extractor rod. Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Verification and History

Because Smith & Wesson often used overlapping serial number ranges for different frame sizes during this era, the only way to get a guaranteed production and shipping date is through a Letter of Authenticity . This service is provided by the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation

and can provide specific details about the original retailer and shipping date. Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation specific engineering changes

I can’t help with instructions for altering, removing, or installing firearm serial numbers or otherwise making identifying marks unreadable or misleading. That includes step‑by‑step guides, tools, or methods for modifying serial numbers.

If you want a lawful, constructive article instead, here are safe alternatives I can write:

Tell me which alternative you want (pick one), and include your location if you want legal or transfer specifics.

Identifying a Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 by its serial number is the primary method for determining its production date, typically falling between 1982 and 1988. The Model 19-5 represents a significant engineering transition in the "Combat Magnum" lineage, most notably the elimination of the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder. Locating and Interpreting the Serial Number

The official serial number on a Smith & Wesson revolver is almost always located on the bottom of the grip frame (butt).

Alpha-Numeric Format: By the time of the Model 19-5's release in 1982, Smith & Wesson had transitioned to a three-letter prefix followed by four digits (e.g., ABC1234).

Other Markings: If you open the cylinder, you will see the model number (MOD 19-5) stamped on the frame in the yoke area. Do not confuse "assembly numbers" found in this area with the actual serial number; assembly numbers were internal factory codes used during manufacturing. Service Marks: A star symbol (

) next to a serial number indicates the firearm was returned to the factory for major service or refinishing. Production Timeline and Engineering Changes

The "19-5" designation specifically marks the fifth major engineering revision of the Model 19. Model Revision Year Introduced Key Engineering Change Model 19-4 Relocated gas check on yoke Model 19-5 1982

Eliminated pinned barrel and counterbore (recessed) cylinders Model 19-6 New yoke retention system How to Verify Your Serial Number

Since there is no public, searchable online database for S&W serial numbers, you can use these authoritative methods to "install" the correct date and history for your specific unit:

Reference the Standard Catalog: The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson is the definitive resource for matching serial number ranges to specific shipping years.

Request a Factory Letter: For a fee, the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation provides official "Letters of Authenticity" that detail exactly when your firearm was shipped and its original configuration.

Customer Service: You can contact Smith & Wesson Customer Service directly; they can often provide the manufacture year over the phone if you provide the serial number.

The Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 is a .357 Magnum K-frame revolver produced in the early to mid-1980s. To locate or verify its official serial number, you should check specific locations on the frame: Serial Number Locations

Bottom of the Grip Frame (Butt): This is the official serial number of record. If your revolver has oversized wood or rubber target grips, you must remove them to see this number.

Yoke Cut: When you open the cylinder, the serial number is often stamped on the flat part of the frame where the yoke (crane) hinges.

Note: You will likely see "MOD 19-5" here, indicating the model and engineering revision.

Caution: Other numbers in this area (usually 5 digits) may be internal assembly numbers and are not the official serial number. Key Features of the Model 19-5 Model 19 Transition (1957 – 1959): Around 1957,

The "dash-five" (-5) revision introduced significant manufacturing changes compared to earlier Model 19s:

Elimination of Pinned Barrel: The barrel is no longer held in place by a small cross-pin; it is instead "crush-fitted" to the frame.

Elimination of Recessed Cylinder: The cylinder chambers are no longer recessed (counterbored) to allow cartridge rims to sit flush.

Logo Placement: The Smith & Wesson trademark logo was moved from the right side of the frame to the left side.

Standard Features: It typically features an adjustable rear sight, a ramped front sight (often with an orange insert), and wood grips. Identification Tips

The Smith & Wesson Model 1955, also referred to in your query as the Model 195, is a variant of their semiautomatic pistol line. The Model 1955 specifically relates to the .45 ACP version of their Model 39 series, which was produced from 1955 to 1962.

Smith & Wesson assigned serial numbers to their firearms for identification and production tracking purposes. For the Model 1955, serial numbers range approximately from K100 to K2206.

Here are some interesting features and facts about the Smith & Wesson Model 1955:

For collectors and firearms enthusiasts, the serial number can provide valuable information about the production date, model variations, and potential historical significance of the firearm.

Typical Serial Number Range: The serial numbers for these models typically started at K100 and went to around K2206. If you're looking for specific production dates or have a particular interest in whether a given serial number falls within this range, I recommend consulting a detailed collector's guide or reaching out to Smith & Wesson's customer service or a reputable firearms historian for precise information.

If you are a collector or interested in the rich history of Smith & Wesson pistols, checking the pistol's action, finish, grips, and other distinctive marks alongside the serial number can offer insights into its production and use history.

Smith & Wesson Model 1950 Serial Numbers and Installation

The Smith & Wesson Model 1950, also known as the Model 195, is a .38 Special revolver produced from 1955 to 1962. If you're a collector or owner of this firearm, understanding its serial number range and installation can help verify its authenticity and value.

Serial Number Range: The Smith & Wesson Model 1950 serial numbers fall within the K100-K72226 range. Production began in 1955 with the serial number K100 and ended in 1962 at approximately K72226.

Installation and Features: The Model 195 is characterized by its:

Verification and Maintenance: To verify your Model 1950's authenticity, ensure its serial number matches the production range. Always refer to a professional gunsmith for any maintenance or verification needs.

Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 (commonly abbreviated as "19 5" or "195") is the fifth engineering variation of the famous .357 Combat Magnum, produced between 1982 and 1988

. This specific version is historically significant because it marked the transition where S&W eliminated the pinned barrel and counterbored (recessed) cylinder. Locating the Serial Number

To identify or verify your specific revolver, you must look at the "serial number of record" rather than assembly numbers. Primary Location (Butt of the Frame) : The authoritative serial number is always stamped on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt)

. You may need to remove the grips (stocks) if they are "target style" and cover the bottom of the frame. Secondary Location (Yoke/Crane)

: When you swing the cylinder open, you will see "MOD 19-5" stamped on the frame. Below or near this, there may be a number. On the 19-5, this is often the actual serial number, but in earlier models, it was frequently an assembly number

used for fitting parts at the factory and should not be used for official identification. What to Look For

: By the time the 19-5 was produced, serial numbers typically consisted of a three-letter prefix followed by four digits (e.g., Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Dating Your Model 19-5 The Model 19-5 was introduced in

to simplify production. Because Smith & Wesson does not provide a public, searchable database, dating is typically done using the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson or by contacting the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Letter of Authenticity Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation

Common prefix ranges for the 19-5 era (1982–1988) include: 1982–1983 : Prefixes starting with : Transition into JustAnswer Key Specifications of the 19-5 How to Identify & Date a S&W revolver - Scribd

Please note: There is no "Model 195" in Smith & Wesson's standard production line. It is highly likely you are referring to the Model 19.

Here is a guide regarding the serial numbers and history of the Smith & Wesson Model 19.