Try looking on the side of the barrel. Both of my Smiths have the clambering stamped there.I cant tell and dont know what ammo to get
If the serial is scratched out then I'd think VERY strongly about getting rid of it. Guns with sketchy pasts are something I'd get rid of on the double quick.Will do its at my friends. It has maybe a sketchy past we think
Try reaching out to S&W customer service and they might be able to help check their archives for what kind of caliber it is.Good to know thanks
Antiques didn’t have serial numbers.S&W customer service will need the serial number, like it was stated if the gun has a sketchy past and the serial number is gone, I definitely would get rid of it, easiest way is if they gave a gun buy back, with those, no questions asked, but, it’s just my opinion.
Looks to me like it may possibly be military. The stamping shows it was patented on Jan 24, 1965. Then I would guess the next two dates are issue dates and the last three are when it was reissued. I’m not military, but can’t think of any other reason for this to have that many dates and reference to it being “reissued”. Just a guess on my part.Need help when made at what caliber?
Looks to me like it may possibly be military. The stamping shows it was patented on Jan 24, 1965. Then I would guess the next two dates are issue dates and the last three are when it was reissued. I’m not military, but can’t think of any other reason for this to have that many dates and reference to it being “reissued”. Just a guess on my part.
Check for any other markings.
Not a typo, didn’t even consider 1865, lol. If it’s 1865, it’s definitely worth some money. And don’t worry about a serial number in that case. Pretty sure firearms manufactured prior to 1900 don’t require serial numbers or the usual paperwork that modern firearms do. I’d definitely take that to an antique dealer and get it appraised.I'm sure that was a typo on your part but not 1965 but 1865.