Understanding the Smith & Wesson (S&W) serial number system is an exercise in tracing nearly 170 years of industrial history. Unlike modern standardized databases, the S&W records are a complex tapestry of sequential numbers, model-specific prefixes, and historical overlaps that require both official documentation and dedicated collector research to navigate. The Evolution of Serialization
Do you have the serial number or model number of your revolver? Smith & Wesson Serial Numbers
But navigating the world of S&W serialization is notoriously complex. Unlike many modern manufacturers that use a simple, linear date code, Smith & Wesson has used multiple serial number sequences, overlapping ranges, and no consistent prefix system for over 170 years. This article serves as your complete roadmap to understanding, accessing, and utilizing a serial number database for Smith & Wesson revolvers.
| Model | Serial Number Range | Production Date | | --- | --- | --- | | Model 10 | K100-K5000 | 1955-1969 | | Model 14 | L100-L5000 | 1956-1970 | | Model 29 | W100-W5000 | 1955-1969 |
Smith & Wesson does not maintain a single, comprehensive public online database for looking up all revolver serial numbers due to the company's vast 170-year manufacturing history