Numbers visible when the cylinder is open are often just "assembly numbers" used during manufacturing and should not be confused with the official serial number on the butt. The Star Symbol (☆):
The "official" serial number is generally stamped on the . smith and wesson serial number chart
Serial number data is compiled from factory records, collector forums, and reference books (e.g., Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson ). No online chart is 100% complete or official. For law enforcement or legal verification (e.g., stolen gun check), always contact Smith & Wesson directly or a qualified firearms appraiser. Numbers visible when the cylinder is open are
Before diving into numbers, you must understand three critical rules: No online chart is 100% complete or official
For example, a serial number like "AB123456Z" would indicate that the firearm was produced in the 123456th sequence (AB prefix) in the year 2002 (Z suffix).
Small frame snub-noses.
On revolvers, always use the number on the butt . The number inside the yoke cut is frequently a non-serial assembly number.