Gun Question: S&W Model 49

[Wingman]

I just bought a new (to me) S&W J frame model 49. This is the steel version with the shrouded hammer - the "Bodyguard"



I'm trying to figure out when it was manufactured. I found the model number when I released the cylinder, and when looking down at the frame (cylinder opened) I found the following numbers; 91583 and stamped separately - G11. Is this the date code? 9/15/83?  Does this gun have drop protection on the hammer and finally, where would I locate a manual for the gun.

I was looking for an "airweight" .38 snub because I didn' think I could find one in a heavier frame. I bought the model 49 over the airweight because it should be less prone to bucking when fired.

[Skeeter (Va)]

I have a S&W 37 Airweight 38 snub (1 7/8") that can take +P hollow points for my CC. I'm very happy with it. I have a holster that puts the weapon high up, almost above the belt. At times I holster it in a holster that rests behind the fly area under your jeans just above the Willy. My gut has grown a little and I have to suck in so hard to get the gun out. It would seem uncomfortable there, but it is un noticeable.     I'm also drooling for the Taurus Judge   .410 / 45 that is not that much larger than a  J  gun...... That is a fine revolver you have there. I wish I could help you with your question....

[bsnicely]

If that 49 in your pic is yours it is an older one for sure. That one has a pinned barrel. I am not sure when they quit pinning the barrels in but they are older guns. Is the chambers recessed for the case head? If it is your 49 is worth more to a collector as it is  " Pinned and Recessed".

[Wingman]

Brian,

This is a photo I found online, but mine is identicalto this one right down to the grips. I'm not clear on your meaning on the chamber recess. I will take detailed photos of mine and post them if it will help you identify this gun. I bought it to keep, but I would like to know what I have.

Thanks in advance for your expertise!

[solo1]

Wingman, the model 49 Smith was introduced in 1959.  I can't tell you when yours was made.

The 1998 models and subsequent models of the J frame, were OK'd by Smith to use +P ammunition sparingly.

The hammer on yours is shrouded so it couldn't go off by landing on the hammer..  However, some later firearms had a "transfer" hammer mechanism that would make it impossible for the hammer (firing pin)to contact the primer unless the trigger was pulled.  I don't know about the "J"'s.  I have a Model 442 lightweight, recently bought used.  This is my second J model and I can't speak highly enough about the reliability of them.

I shoot +P in my lightweight occasionally but I would never fire +P+.  I have a Ruger Speed Six in .357 for more power. 

[Jean the Black Wolf]

what do you think about my mine ?

 

[bassman]

Might try here for a manual.....

http://gunmanuals.net/

[Wingman]

Here are some pictures of the actual gun:



And this one with the cylinder open:


Thanks for the comments, I really like this one! 

[X Ring]

Wingman, need to see the other end of the cylinder.

[Wingman]

Sorry. Here it is.

[oldtimer]

Wingman, my father had  a revolver like the one you have and he loved it. Must have fired a gazillion rounds through it "just for fun".
Skeeter, I purchased a "judge" at the first of the year and I love the gun. For me it is the perfect gun for home defense or to keep in your car/truck. It has plenty of "knock down power" with the .45 long colt. Also, you will be pleasantly surprised at the "feel" and balance of the revolver. I take mine, and my .44 magnum, to the indoor range about twice a month and it is very accurate. If you have to defend yourself, you can be confident you will be safe.  I have a concealed weapons license and I am trying to design a holder so I can take it with me on my Valk. 

[Wingman]

Old timer,

I haven't been able to shoot it yet, but I think it will be a good one!

Keep us posted on your bike carry system. I would be interested to see what you come up with. 

[X Ring]

While you do have a pinned barrel, you don't have recessed cylinders.  I would judge it to be mid '70s.  To find out for sure call Smith.  They'll be able to tell you when it was made.  Make sure you have the Model # including the -variant and serial number.

[Hoser]

I put my 357 snubby in my tank bag, which I lock in the trunk when I leave the bike.  I have a 22mag 5 shot derringer that is always in my pocket.  Hoser

[Wingman]

Thanks for the reply X Ring! I'm beginning to believe that it may be a date code (83) where the cylinder releases. S&W wants $50 bucks to provide a history on my snubbie, I don't know if I car that much! 


Hoser, the 22 mag 5 shot will be my next acquisition. I think it is a North American and has a folding handle that clips in your pocket like a pocket knife. It's about derringer size. 

[Hoosier Valk]

Wingman, if you post the serial number that is on the bottom of the grip frame (minus the last three digits IE J1234XXX or 11JXXX) someone probably can get it within 3-5 years. My best guess would be around 1981. Good luck!

[Hoosier Valk]

Or try this link:
http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?s=0f6d1ea9f9ba54ae015083db6a4f745b&t=277680

[Wingman]

Thanks, I'll probably order the book too as I have 2 S&W pistols.

The SN is J521XXX

[Hoosier Valk]

I looked up when I purchased a Model 49, that I bought new, and it was 1979 and is serial # J683XXX. So yours was manufactured before 1979.

[Wingman]

Well, it seems to be in really good shape!

Thanks for checking this for me.

[Hoser]

Thanks for the reply X Ring! I'm beginning to believe that it may be a date code (83) where the cylinder releases. S&W wants $50 bucks to provide a history on my snubbie, I don't know if I car that much! 


Hoser, the 22 mag 5 shot will be my next acquisition. I think it is a North American and has a folding handle that clips in your pocket like a pocket knife. It's about derringer size. 

That is the one, I've got a wallet holster, you can shoot from it, it has a trigger and hammer slot.  hoser