Thanks O.J......you're assessment makes a LOT of sense. You've laid out enough evidence to convince me. But even if you're wrong, I found out what I wanted to know....this is a gun to shoot and have fun with....not a rare collectible that needs to stay in the safe.

Like I said earlier I really just love to try and figure out the history of these older "one off" guns. I think it's pretty cool that someone went to the time and trouble (not to mention expense) of having this snubbie tailored to his exact preference. The only thing I wish I had was the name of the smith who did the work. He must have been something to behold! I would absolutely love to see some of his other work. But that information isn't going to be in a letter from S&W.

Thanks for the education guys!

Heavyweight