Smith And Wesson Model 195 Serial Numbers Install

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 and wesson model 195 serial numbers install
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.

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.

I notice you’ve asked me to review the phrase: The Smith & Wesson Model 1955, also referred

"smith and wesson model 195 serial numbers install"

Here’s my breakdown:

Part 3: Tools Required for Model 195 Serial Number Installation

Gather these specific tools before starting. Using generic hardware store tools will damage the revolver.

Magnifying headset (5x-10x) – To read small serial stamps on the yoke.
Brass punch set – To drift out the front locking bolt pin.
N-frame yoke tool – To unscrew the yoke barrel (special thin-wall socket).
Feeler gauges – For setting barrel-cylinder gap (0.006” to 0.010”).
Brownells barrel vise & action wrench – Mandatory for removing/replacing the barrel.
Headspace gauge (.45 ACP Go/No-Go) – Because .45 ACP headspaces on the moon clip or case mouth.

Serial Number Ranges

If you are trying to date a specific firearm, it is important to look at the serial number stamped on the butt of the grip frame (and often on the crane or cylinder).

Pre-Model 19 Era (1955 – 1957): Before S&W adopted numerical model numbers, these revolvers were known as the ".357 Combat Magnum." Serial numbers during this transition period typically began with an "S" prefix.
- Range: Approx. S140000 – S190000
Model 19 Transition (1957 – 1959): Around 1957, S&W began stamping "MOD 19" inside the crane area. The serial numbers continued with the "S" prefix. Double Action / Single Action : The pistol
- Range: Approx. S190000 – S260000
The "N" Prefix (1959 – 1969): Smith & Wesson changed the serial number prefix to "N" to denote the heavy barrel and improvements.
- Range: N1 – N99999
Post-1969 (The Dash Numbers): In 1969, S&W switched to a numbering system where the model number included a "dash" number to indicate engineering changes (e.g., Model 19-3). During this era, serial numbers began with "3K," "4K," "5K," etc., and eventually moved into the "K" series serial numbers.

Secondary Confirmation Locations:

S&W stamped the serial number in three other places to verify factory-original parts. Using a flashlight, check:

Inside the Yoke Cutout: Open the cylinder. On the frame where the yoke (crane) swings closed, look for the number.
Rear Face of the Cylinder: Roll the cylinder out; check the flat face opposite the chambers.
Inside of the Right Grip Panel: The underside of the original wooden stock is often pencil-written or stamped with the last digits of the serial number.

Warning: Do not use the assembly numbers (usually 4-5 digits stamped on the yoke itself). These are factory floor tracking numbers and have no relation to your gun’s birthday.

Step 3: "Model 195" vs. "Model 1950" – The Optical Illusion

If your revolver’s crane is stamped with a number that looks like MOD. 195, look again with a magnifying glass.

The Reality: The standard stamping from 1957 to 1966 was MOD. 24 or MOD. 22.
The Confusion: If the top of the 0 in 50 is lightly struck, or the die was dirty, the 0 can look like a 5. A worn MOD. 195 is almost always a MOD. 1950 (which is simply an early production Model 24 or 22).
The Exception: Some Spanish or Italian copies (like Astra or Tanfoglio) actually used "Model 195." If your gun isn't marked "Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Mass. USA," it is a clone.

Part 5: Troubleshooting Common "Model 195 Install" Errors

Even with matching serial numbers, old revolvers have wear. Here are the three most common issues after installation: