Smith And Wesson Model 195 Serial Numbers Install -

The Smith & Wesson Model 19 is a revolver featured on the K-frame (medium frame). It was the first revolver chambered in .357 Magnum that was practical for regular police carry and civilian use, largely due to the efforts of firearms instructor Bill Jordan, who collaborated with S&W on its design.

If you own a classic Smith & Wesson N-frame revolver from the early 1950s—often called the "Model 195" by collectors referencing the 1950 Target or Army model—you understand the value of proper maintenance. Unlike modern CNC-machined pistols, these post-war revolvers require a nuanced understanding of serial number locations, hand-fitting, and timing before you install any new parts.

This article covers:

On a true S&W revolver from this era (c. 1950–1960), the official serial number is found on the butt of the grip frame. You must remove the stocks (grips) to see it clearly. smith and wesson model 195 serial numbers install

For a successful "Model 195" parts install, you need to ensure the used parts come from a compatible era. Check these four locations:

If the numbers don't match: You are dealing with a "parts gun." You will need to hand-fit the new components—simply dropping them in will cause the cylinder to bind or the barrel gap to be excessive. The Smith & Wesson Model 19 is a

Serial numbers on a S&W firearm are factory-stamped, not installed by the user.
You cannot “install” a serial number yourself legally or practically without being a licensed manufacturer.
What you might mean:

The phrase reads like a mangled search query or a translation error.

Since we are dealing with a Pre-Model 24 (.44 Special) or Pre-Model 22 (.45 ACP/AR) , you will see an "S" or "N" prefix in the serial number on the butt. On a true S&W revolver from this era (c

Here is the approximate dating chart for these Post-War N-Frames (1950-1957):

| Serial Number Prefix | Approximate Year | Model Designation | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | S 62,489 – S 75,000 | 1950 | Early 1950 Target/Military | | S 75,001 – S 85,999 | 1951 | 1950 Production | | S 86,000 – S 94,999 | 1952 | Late "Pre-24/22" | | S 95,000 – S 102,999 | 1953 | 4-screw frame intro | | S 103,000 – S 139,999 | 1954-1955 | | | S 140,000 – S 175,999 | 1956 | Late Pre-Model production | | S 176,000 – S 181,999 | 1957 | End of Pre-Model era |

Note: 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.