357 Combat Magnum (later designated Model 19), with the first serial-number gun (K260,000) presented to Jordan on November 15, 1955. After a year of experimentation with improved-strength steels and special heat-treat processes, the result was the. 357 Magnum with a shrouded barrel like the big N-frame. Jordan's idea for a ' peace officer's dream' sidearm was a heavy-barreled four-inch K-Frame. 357s, and a favorite of many experienced professionals like Border Patrolman and noted writer Bill Jordan. The classic Model 19 is one of the original S&W. 125 inch longer case, and the first revolvers (referred to as '.357 Magnum Models') were completed by S&W on April 8, 1935. 357 Magnum, which was dimensionally identical to the. 38 Special loads, but only if Winchester would develop a new cartridge. Wesson agreed to produce a new revolver that would handle 'high-intensity'.

Firearms writer and experimenter Philip Sharpe is credited for its development during the 1930s when police agencies were asking for a more powerful round. Smith & Wesson played a major part in the development and success of the cartridge and revolver that went with it. 357 Magnum is the oldest handgun 'magnum' cartridge. The K-frame is considerably smaller and lighter than the original N-frame. The S&W Model 19 is a revolver produced by Smith & Wesson chambered in. Diplomatic Security Service Special Security Team Used_by= South Australian Police Rhode Island State Police Bundesnachrichtendienst GSG 9 U.S. Caption=S&W Model 19-5 polished nickel, 4' barrel

Smith wesson serial number database