Description
Smith & Wesson N-Frame Target Stocks
These Smith & Wesson N-Frame Target Stocks are factory square-butt Goncalo Alves revolver grips with the large Target profile, bordered checkering, silver S&W medallions, and later speedloader-relief cut. The construction and interior details identify them as the washerless / press-fit medallion pattern used after Smith & Wesson moved away from internal medallion washers.
Smith & Wesson N-Frame Square Butt Goncalo Alves Target Stocks
These stocks are configured for Smith & Wesson N-frame square-butt revolvers. The broad butt, flared lower profile, pronounced upper horn, and hand-filling shape distinguish them from the slimmer Magna pattern. This set is especially attractive due to the unusually strong dark figure in the Goncalo Alves wood.
Construction / Configuration / Pattern
The stocks are factory Goncalo Alves Target stocks with bordered checkered panels, smooth outer borders, silver-tone Smith & Wesson medallions, and the original grip screw. The left panel has the substantial factory-style speedloader relief cut at the front, allowing clearance for speedloader use.
The backs show first-generation washerless construction. The raised wood area behind each medallion is factory construction, not a repair or replacement plug. Earlier Smith & Wesson stocks used internal metal stock circles or washers to retain the medallions, while this later pattern uses a press-fit medallion arrangement with a raised wood alignment and support area left around the medallion post.
The interiors appear marked with an “N” on both panels, along with additional inspector or production markings. There also appears to be an inked “JUL 1 1986” marking along the inside of the butt, which fits the washerless construction and late-production Target stock chronology. This should be treated as a likely stock manufacture/date marking rather than a revolver serial number.
Historical Context / Pattern Development
Smith & Wesson Target stocks were the larger factory grip option for revolvers where a fuller grip profile was desired. On N-frame revolvers, these stocks gave the shooter a broader, more hand-filling grip than standard service or Magna stocks.
The later speedloader-cut Target pattern and washerless press-fit medallion construction place this set in the post-washer transition period. Based on the construction, profile, speedloader cut, and apparent internal date marking, these are best described as circa 1985-1991 production, likely 1986.
Condition
Very good overall condition. The checkering remains sharp, the glossy finish is strong, and the wood shows excellent dark striping and figure. There are light handling marks from age and storage, along with a small chip or nick at the toe of the left panel. The medallions, washerless interior construction, internal markings, and grip screw are present.
Listing Disclaimer
Buyer is responsible for verifying fit with their specific Smith & Wesson N-frame square-butt revolver. The apparent internal date marking is described as visible and consistent with the construction, but not presented as a firearm serial number.
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