Please help ID model of my S&W revolver

[southshoresig]

Hello everyone,
I bought a used 38 special snub nosed bodyguard airweight but I don't know what model it is It's blued and the serial # is 2261XX. It appears to match pictures of Model 38 and Model 49.
Thanks for any help.

 

[FPrice]

If it is an airweight, then it should be the Model 38, the Bodyguard Airweight. The model 49 is built on the steel J-frame and is heavier. The 38 is about 14 oz while the 49 is around 20 oz. Whichever you have, it's a nice little carry piece.

 

[FPrice]

Just thought of this, open the cylinder and see if the model number is stamped in the crane area.

 

[southshoresig]

Thanks Frosty, it does have MOD 38 inside the cradle. Are there any websites that I can look up the year it was made? It's such a nice looking piece that it intrigues me.
Thanks again
ps it's a great shooter in addition to carrying well.

 

[FPrice]

I generally use Supica and Nahas' Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson and the assembled expertise of the people on www.smith-wessonforum.com to date S&W products. I would estimate 1959 or 60 for yours. You can call S&W customer service I believe and they can pinpoint it closer.

 

[vellnueve]

How did you register it if you didn't know the model?

 

[southshoresig]

I bought it at 4 seasons and they did the paper work. I just looked at the paperwork and they listed it as a model 49. Go figure Also I was interested in finding how old it was as the finish is like new.

 

[FPrice]

I bought it at 4 seasons and they did the paper work. I just looked at the paperwork and they listed it as a model 49. Go figure Also I was interested in finding how old it was as the finish is like new.

Sometimes even the best of gun shops make a mistake. As long as the serial number and other pertinent information is correct I doubt that a wrong model number would cause you any problem.

The finish on many of the older S&Ws can last a long time if they are handled carefully. Sounds like yours was.

Got pics?

 

[southshoresig]

I'll try to get some pics this week. Thanks for all of your help.