Looking for specific serial number dating? The standard reference is the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" (4th Edition) by Supica and Nahas. Your "Model 195" likely shipped between 1950 and 1955.
The serial number system for the Model 1950 was based on a numerical sequence that started at K1000 and ended at K10927. The serial numbers were assigned in chronological order, with the earliest pistols having lower serial numbers and later pistols having higher serial numbers.
Because the Model 19-5 ran from 1982 to 1988, its serial numbers span across these three-letter prefix blocks. You can cross-reference your specific prefix with the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson to find the exact production year: Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation
| Location | What it tells you | Tool needed | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Primary serial (legal S/N) | Screwdriver (remove grips) | | Yoke (crane) | Last 3-4 digits of S/N | Bright light | | Cylinder face | Last 3-4 digits | Magnifying glass | | Extractor star | Last 3-4 digits (under star) | Extractor rod tool |
Finding the serial number and manufacture date for a Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 is straightforward once you know where to look. In the Smith & Wesson numbering system, the suffix "-5" refers to the of the Model 19 (Combat Magnum), which was produced between 1982 and 1988 . 🔍 Locating the Serial Number smith and wesson model 195 serial numbers install
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 pistol allowed for both double-action and single-action shooting.
If you plan on installing new grips, sights, or performing a deep clean, your serial number is your quality control tool. After installing any part:
You will see other numbers stamped on the revolver, especially inside the yoke cutout (the area revealed when you swing out the cylinder). These are assembly numbers used on the factory floor to keep fitted parts (like the side plate and yoke) together. They have no meaning after the gun is assembled and cannot be used to date or identify your firearm. Looking for specific serial number dating
You may not have a Model 195 because no such model exists. So what are you likely holding? Your search for a "Model 195" is almost certainly a case of mistaken identity. Let’s examine the most plausible explanations:
It remains one of the most balanced revolvers ever made, suitable for both historical study and target shooting.
Decoding a Smith and Wesson Model 1950 serial number can provide valuable information about the firearm's production date, model, and authenticity. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you identify and decode your Model 1950's serial number:
Do I need to register my Smith and Wesson Model 1950? A: Registration requirements vary by jurisdiction, but registering your pistol can help prevent theft and ensure compliance with regulations. The serial number system for the Model 1950
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.
Before installing any mechanical component, cross-reference your serial number era with the design changes of the N-frame chassis.
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
When "installing" a new accessory, you do not need the serial number to determine compatibility. Instead, you need the model number.