S&W Model 19 Question

[Sundowner]

I just purchased a S&W Model 19 with 6-inch barrel. It was on consignment and is in like-new condition. The model stamp is 19-7 and the serial number is BUA8xxx. Can anyone tell me approximately when this revolver was made? Thanks!

[jdberger]

Recently

The 7th model change for the M19 was in 1994. Smith and Wesson discontinued the 6" barrel in 1996.

S&W guns don't come out of the factory in serial number order so the best you would get is an approximate date.

The M19 is a great gun, maybe a teeny bit undersized for a constant diet of .357 Magnum. It was discontinued completely in November 1999.

Hope that this helps.

[c good]

JD's above post nailed it. I would stay mostly with .38 special and plus P loads in it. If you want to shoot .357 Mag, I would go with the heavier weight bullets, ie 158 gr. Try to avoid the 125 gr. magnum loads, they are a little hard on the lighter weight K frame. Congrats on a great revolver! HTH c good

[Sundowner]

Thank you, both, for the information! I'll take your advice. I prefer the .38 spl loads for target practice as the magnum loads get old real fast!