On top-break models, look here after opening the action. 2. Decoding the Letter Prefixes
The most collected series is the Safety Automatic Revolver. These are break-top (top-break) revolvers. You must identify which "Model" you have:
Identifying and dating Iver Johnson revolvers is a specialized task because official company records are incomplete . The most comprehensive "database" for collectors is found in , Iver Johnson Arms & Cycle Works Firearms 1871-1993 , which contains the most accurate serial number lists and design evolution charts available. 1. Locate the Serial Number
Generally indicates a manufacture date between 1920 and 1929 (e.g., "C" often corresponds to 1926).
Data fields (recommended)
Handling ambiguous or altered serials
You may need to remove the "Owl’s Head" grips to see the full number and letter prefix on the left side of the grip strap. The Trigger Guard: Often found on the bottom of the guard.
is considered the industry-standard "database" for these serials. Community Forums : Collectors on platforms like Reddit/r/guns
To use the databases effectively, you need to know exactly what you have. Follow this checklist before opening a browser or grabbing a reference book: Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
🚫 : “Universal” serial lookup sites. They mix up Iver Johnson with H&R, S&W, or US Revolver Co.
Before you can begin your research, you must locate the correct, complete serial number. A common mistake is looking only at the visible number on the trigger guard or butt. The key to accurate identification lies elsewhere.
This is frequently cited as the premier online database specifically for Iver Johnson firearms. It allows users to input a serial number to access manufacturing details, model specifications, and production dates. If you want a quick digital answer, this is your starting point.
The Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database is an invaluable resource for anyone who owns or collects Iver Johnson revolvers. Its comprehensive data, ease of use, and accuracy make it the best database available for determining the production date, model, and authenticity of your firearm. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new owner, this database is a must-have tool for ensuring that you have a thorough understanding of your Iver Johnson revolver. On top-break models, look here after opening the action
Some early models have numbers on the bottom of the butt.
Because the original company records do not exist as a single chronological master list, firearms historians like Bill Goforth meticulously reconstructed the production records. This comprehensive guide provides everything needed to locate your serial number, decode the letter prefix, and determine if your antique handgun is safe for modern ammunition. Step 1: Locate the Official Serial Number
Typically manufactured between 1909 and 1919 .
+------------------+------------------+---------------------+-----------------------+ | Generation | Production Years | Mainspring Type | Ammunition Safety | +------------------+------------------+---------------------+-----------------------+ | First Model | 1894 – 1895 | Flat Leaf Spring | Black Powder Only | | Second Model | 1896 – 1908 | Flat Leaf Spring | Black Powder Only | | Third Model | 1909 – 1941 | Coiled Mainspring | Modern Smokeless | +------------------+------------------+---------------------+-----------------------+ Step 2: Decode the Letter Prefixes These are break-top (top-break) revolvers