FAQs
Take advantage of online resources and databases dedicated to firearms identification. Several websites allow users to search for make and model information based on serial numbers, markings, or photographs.
What are the serial numbers for S&W revolvers? ›
Revolvers - The official serial number is located on the bottom of the butt of the frame. Some revolvers also have the serial number located on the inside of the frame, in the yoke area. Pistols - The serial number is located on the side of the frame.
Where are the serial numbers on a 38 special? ›
Model numbers and serial numbers on S&W Revolvers are located on the inside of the crane. When you open the cylinder, at the front pivot point, there is a flat where the numbers are stamped. In the photo below, you can see the serial number and just barely see the model number just below the black arrow.
Where is the serial number on a Dan Wesson revolver? ›
The serial number is written on the box label and matches the stamp on the gun. The somewhat unusual thing to me is that it's only a four digit number and instead of being stamped conspicuously on the outside of the frame, it's stamped underneath the crane so you have to swing the cylinder out to see it.
Can I check a gun serial number online? ›
Unfortunately for purchasers in private sales, only law enforcement agencies are allowed to request a gun serial number check or search of the lost and stolen gun database.
Is a gun serial number tied to your name? ›
Gun serial numbers are used in gun registration and are usually linked to an owner who is usually required to hold a firearms license.
Can you tell what year a gun was made by the serial number? ›
some guns do have dates coded into the serial number, or the manufacturer may know what #'s were produced in what year. but there is no standard pattern for serial numbers on guns the way there is on vehicles.
Can you tell a year by a serial number? ›
To Determine Manufacture Date Based on Serial Number: The 1st three numbers of your serial number will always provide your manufacture date. The 1st number is the YEAR of manufacture; the 2nd & 3rd numbers indicate the MONTH of manufacture.
What is the rarest Smith and Wesson revolver? ›
The Smith & Wesson Model 320 was a revolving rifle produced by Smith & Wesson in the late 19th century. It is the rarest Smith & Wesson in existence.
What is a rare serial number? ›
Serial numbers that start with five or more zeros are fancy: meaning 00000001 - 00000999. The more leading zeros, the better.
If you have your product's original packaging, you can check the barcode to find the serial number. You can also find your product's serial number on the original product receipt or invoice.
What model is the Dan Wesson 357 revolver? ›
357 Magnum.
Where is the serial number on a S&W 357 Magnum? ›
The model should be on the frame when you swing open the cylinder, and if the model is not there, the serial number may be. If its an older model. The serial may be on the bottom of the grip frame. You may need to take the wood stocks(grips) off to see it.
What year did Dan Wesson come out? ›
Dan Wesson Firearms
Company type | Subsidiary of CZ-USA |
---|
Founded | 1968 |
Founder | Daniel B. Wesson II |
Headquarters | Norwich, New York , United States |
Products | Firearms and law enforcement goods |
4 more rows
Where can I find the model of my gun? ›
It may also be on the receiver. It's the same with pistols. Semi-autos will usually have the make and model of the firearm printed on the slide, either on the right or left side. There may be certain information printed on both sides.
Can you trace a gun by serial number? ›
NTC Connect provides a secure web-based application through which authorized NTC personnel can send a query by serial number only against an FFL's electronic firearm disposition records and retrieve the corresponding disposition data (if applicable).
What does a serial number on a gun do? ›
These numbers serve as a way to track and identify firearms throughout their lifespan. The purpose of firearm serial numbers is to provide a means of identification for law enforcement, manufacturers, and owners in order to prevent theft, track ownership, and aid in criminal investigations.
What does model number mean on a gun? ›
“M” almost always stands for “model”. The numbers are usually the year the gun was invented/made, or the model/design number. For instance, the 15 in AR-15 means that the AR-15 is the 15th model of the AR platform.