In late 1944, a tragic shipboard accident revealed that the revolver could discharge if dropped directly on its hammer. S&W engineered an improved, positive mechanical hammer block. Revolvers built with this upgrade feature an , signifying "Safety" and "Victory." Key Factory Specifications
The "S" indicates the presence of the improved hammer-block safety mechanism introduced in late 1944. On many guns, the "S" appears as a prefix (SV) indicating a gun produced with or retrofitted with the new safety. On some guns, a standalone "S" may be stamped elsewhere on the frame while the official serial number retains only the V prefix.
The "V" stands for Victory. Production followed this general timeline based on the serial range: Hunters House Serial Prefix Production Year Key Feature V1 to ~V769,000 1942–1944 Standard war production. S769,001 to S811,119 1944–1945 Introduction of improved hammer block. SV769,001 to SV811,119 Modified lockwork/new safety hammer block. Identifying "Extra Quality" & Key Features
While early production models (V1–V100,000) often featured high-grade matte finishes, later models (e.g., VS prefixes) sometimes saw reduced finishing quality to meet wartime demands. s w 38 victory model serial number lookup extra quality
(Premium or advanced tier)
What is the measured from the front of the cylinder to the muzzle?
The prefix is the most critical part of identifying the specific production phase and safety features of your Victory Model: In late 1944, a tragic shipboard accident revealed
A smooth, durable greenish-gray parkerized finish is highly desirable.
Victory Model production began around serial in early 1942 and ended at approximately VS811,119 in August 1945. V1 to ~V200,000: Early production (1942 to mid-1943).
prefix. These revolvers were produced between 1942 and 1945 for World War II. www.ignacypaderewski.org Serial Number Guide (1942–1945) On many guns, the "S" appears as a
A steel swivel loop attached to the bottom of the butt.
The defining visual characteristic of the Victory Model is the in the serial number. The finish is typically a dull, parkerized gray or blue, and the grips are usually smooth walnut (without the medallions found on commercial guns).
