Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson

This is an essential reference book for a S&W enthusiast or collector.

This is THE go to book for information on S&W pistols. There are no cut away diagrams or schematics, but that's not what this book was written or designed to be. It is a reference book that will help users identify various models, and about when they were made. Pictures are also included which also help in the identification process. Along with all that, it is a great window into the development, history and progress of the S&W line of firearms. At the current price of approximately $30, it's a great buy for this hardbound book, and would make an excellent Christmas present or birthday present for the S&W collector or owner.. Someone did grouse about the prices listed in the book. To that I will say that book does provide prices that many guns went for at auctions, which is important information. Beyond that, the prices of firearms is so volatile that even the Blue Book - the recognized Bible for gun prices - can't keep up. On top of that, this book lists guns that aren't even listed in the Blue Book.

I ordered this for my husband and he said he was impressed with the information that it had and likes it. If you have a fire arm enthusiast, this might be fun gift.

The Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson 4th Edition is a great reference book for the collector providing a wealth of information and photos of the early Smith & Wesson firearm models to the present. The 4th Edition does not have the same book cover quality nor does it include a dust cover like the 3rd Edition, but the pages are the same quality both providing excellent information on the history and details of the many improvements made to the firearms, including serial number ranges for models manufactured and production quantities. It also includes detailed information on the firearm components that are important to collectors. Both editions were printed in China, but the quality is very good and is a great value for around the $35 price range.

Highly recommended reference for collectors of S&W revolvers and pistols. Carries on where the 1974 Jinks book finished. Thorough history and description of the entire line.

Reference for collecting. The prices they suggest for buying are a bit low for today.

Good book, but lacking some information I wanted

Best reference on the market.