In order to participate in the GunBroker Member forums, you must be logged in with your GunBroker.com account. Click the sign-in button at the top right of the forums page to get connected.

Old S&W grip Compatibility (Model 1905 M&P)

red8424red8424 Member Posts: 50 ✭✭
edited June 2013 in Ask the Experts
Hey guys,
I was looking for an original set of grips for my old S&W model 1905 M&P in 38spc 4th change when I came across a set that looks identical to what I need. The grips I am looking at came off S&W model 1905 in .32 S&W long. Anyone know if these will fit?
Regards, Jim
· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • 62fuelie62fuelie Member Posts: 1,069 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I believe they used the same frame for both the .32 and .38 calibers all through the life of the M&P so you should be ok.
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • red8424red8424 Member Posts: 50 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Correction, the grips I am looking at are actually from a model of 1903 32S&W HE. I don't think Smith and Wesson made a 1905 32S&W.
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • cussedemguncussedemgun Member Posts: 985 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Red,

    The M1903 32 S&W was an "I" frame gun & different size than the M1905 "K" frame gun you have.

    The original grip panels (stocks) were made for a gun that was manuf. prior to CNC (computer control) machining & therefore were hand fitted to the frame & ser. numbered accordingly. Early pre-model # guns will have the ser.# penciled inside the right panel.

    Without knowing the specifics of your gun, round or square butt, target or service model, & ser.# range to date it, it is not possible to describe the most likely period correct grip panel configuration.

    For specific information on all the various styles & variations of S&W stocks, see the "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson", 3rd edition pages 19 thru 28.

    Hope this is helpful, Jim
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • red8424red8424 Member Posts: 50 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Thanks Jim,
    This information is helpful and has saved me from an unneeded purchase. It has been tough finding good information on this gun and tracking down a decent set of original grips. I will have to put the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson on my wish list. My pistol is a non-target model, round butt, and a serial number of 304xxx. Please correct me if I am wrong but I believe the gun to be made around 1920.
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • cussedemguncussedemgun Member Posts: 985 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Red,

    Your gun was made prior to the cylinder heat-treat up grade. (at about 316,6xx) Your 1920~ date is in the ball park per the book. To get closer, you would need to get a factory letter.

    For stocks, I would shop gun shows in your area so you can get as close to fit as possible & in the same general ser.# series.

    FWIW, no +P loads & carry with the hammer on an empty chamber.

    Your gun was made just prior to heat treating the cylinder & some time prior to the hammer block safety up-grade of the mid 1940's.
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
Sign In or Register to comment.