The Smith & Wesson Model 1955, also referred to in your query as the Model 195, is a variant of their semiautomatic pistol line. The Model 1955 specifically relates to the .45 ACP version of their Model 39 series, which was produced from 1955 to 1962.
Smith & Wesson assigned serial numbers to their firearms for identification and production tracking purposes. For the Model 1955, serial numbers range approximately from K100 to K2206.
Here are some interesting features and facts about the Smith & Wesson Model 1955:
.45 ACP Caliber: It was one of the first pistols by Smith & Wesson chambered in .45 ACP, making it appealing for those who sought the stopping power of this caliber.
Double Action / Single Action: The pistol allowed for both double-action and single-action shooting.
9mm and .45 Variants: While the .45 ACP version (Model 1955) is noted here, Smith & Wesson also produced a 9mm version (Model 39) around the same period.
Slide and Frame Design: The Model 1955 features an alloy frame with a steel slide, which was an interesting combination for its time, aiming to balance durability with reduced weight.
Smith & Wesson’s “ Military” and Law Enforcement Inclined Designs: This pistol was among those produced by Smith & Wesson with an eye towards military and law enforcement contracts.
Successor to the M39: The Model 1955 can be viewed as a successor or closely related to the Model 39, which was Smith & Wesson's first production pistol in 9mm.
For collectors and firearms enthusiasts, the serial number can provide valuable information about the production date, model variations, and potential historical significance of the firearm.
Typical Serial Number Range: The serial numbers for these models typically started at K100 and went to around K2206. If you're looking for specific production dates or have a particular interest in whether a given serial number falls within this range, I recommend consulting a detailed collector's guide or reaching out to Smith & Wesson's customer service or a reputable firearms historian for precise information. smith and wesson model 195 serial numbers install
If you are a collector or interested in the rich history of Smith & Wesson pistols, checking the pistol's action, finish, grips, and other distinctive marks alongside the serial number can offer insights into its production and use history.
Please note: There is no "Model 195" in Smith & Wesson's standard production line. It is highly likely you are referring to the Model 19.
Here is a guide regarding the serial numbers and history of the Smith & Wesson Model 19.
To put it bluntly: If you own a Smith & Wesson that says “Model 195,” you either have a misread 1950 or a counterfeit. Use the serial number on the butt of the grip frame to date your gun via the chart above.
If you need a factory letter to confirm your specific revolver’s ship date (which costs $100), send the serial number to the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation.
Have a photo of a “Model 195” stamp you’d like us to verify? Drop it in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article is for historical and collector education. Always verify a firearm is unloaded before inspecting serial numbers, and follow all local, state, and federal laws.
Smith & Wesson Model 19-5 (often colloquially called the "Model 195") is a critical engineering variant of the famed .357 Combat Magnum . Produced between 1982 and 1988
, this iteration marked the transition from "old school" hand-fitted features to modern streamlined production. Serial Number Location and Identification For all Smith & Wesson revolvers, the official serial number is stamped on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt). Accessing the Number
: You may need to remove the grips if they wrap around the bottom of the frame to view the stamping. Confusion with Assembly Numbers The Smith & Wesson Model 1955, also referred
: Numbers found on the yoke (the crane that swings out) or the frame under the yoke are typically assembly numbers
used during manufacturing and do not indicate the firearm's actual identity. The "-5" Stamp
: When the cylinder is open, the model designation (e.g., "MOD 19-5") is typically stamped on the frame behind the yoke. Historical Context: The 19-5 Engineering Changes
The Model 19-5 is most significant for being the first version to eliminate two classic S&W features to reduce manufacturing costs and complexity: Elimination of the Pinned Barrel
: Previous models had a small pin securing the barrel to the frame; in the 19-5, the barrel is simply screwed into the frame under high tension (crush fit). Elimination of Recessed Cylinders
: In earlier models, the chambers were counter-bored so the cartridge rims sat flush with the cylinder face. The 19-5 features a flat cylinder face. Logo Placement
: The S&W trademark was moved from the right side of the frame to the left side during this production run. Dating Your Model 19-5
Because S&W used an alphanumeric system during the 1980s, the serial number follows a specific pattern:
How to Use the Smith and Wesson Serial Number Database to Fi
To identify or verify your Model 19-5, you must find the official serial number. Note that modern revolvers often have multiple sets of numbers stamped on them, which can be confusing. Double Action / Single Action : The pistol
The Frame Butt (Official Serial): The primary and most authoritative serial number is stamped on the bottom of the grip frame (the butt). If your revolver has oversized "target" wood grips, you may need to remove them to see this number.
The Yoke Cut: When you swing the cylinder open, you will see numbers stamped on the frame in the "yoke" or "crane" area. Model Number: You should see "MOD 19-5" stamped here.
Serial Number: On later Model 19-5s (produced after 1980), the serial number may also be stamped here in the Triple-Alpha format (e.g., ABC1234).
Assembly Numbers: Other small 3- to 5-digit numbers found on the yoke or inside the side plate are "assembly numbers" used during factory fitting and are not the serial number. Serial Number Format & Identification
The Model 19-5 falls into two different serial number systems depending on its specific year of manufacture:
Unlike modern revolvers, old Smiths had parts hand-filed to match a specific frame. Installing a cylinder or barrel without checking serial alignment will destroy timing and lockup.
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:
Do not attempt this without a barrel vise. The Model 195’s frame is soft carbon steel—twisting it cracks the forcing cone.
Even with matching serial numbers, old revolvers have wear. Here are the three most common issues after installation:
| Symptom | Cause | Fix based on serial era | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cylinder binds after 6 shots | Extractor rod unscrewed (reverse threads on S&W). | Tighten rod. Pre-1955 guns have left-hand threads. | | Hammer won't cock on one chamber | Ratchet tooth worn. Serial mismatch between cylinder and hand. | Replace hand with N-frame long-action part. | | Bullets shave lead at barrel gap | Barrel over-indexed (too tight). Gap less than 0.003”. | Re-cut forcing cone or re-set barrel shoulder. |