Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database Best ^hot^ Jun 2026
Many models feature the raw numeric sequence stamped directly on the bottom metal strap.
: Safely remove the grip panels (usually made of molded hard rubber featuring the iconic owl's head). Look at the left side of the metal frame strap.
Older models produced around the turn of the 20th century were often designed specifically for black powder. Using modern smokeless ammunition in firearms not designed for those pressures can result in catastrophic equipment failure and severe injury. Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database BEST
The best way to identify and date an Iver Johnson revolver is through the serial number and letter prefix
Once you input those four things, the database returns: Many models feature the raw numeric sequence stamped
: Upgraded to a double-post top latch to prevent loose frame play. The cylinder still spins freely when at rest.
Before you can use any database, you must first find the correct number. If you have looked at the bottom of the trigger guard or the butt of the gun, you may have seen a number. However, in the vast majority of Iver Johnson revolvers manufactured after 1896, that is the "real" serial number. Older models produced around the turn of the
This guide serves as the ultimate resource for identifying and dating your Iver Johnson revolver. We will explore where to find hidden serial numbers, how to decode production years, and ultimately, the databases and resources available to unlock your firearm's past.
Iver Johnson revolvers, particularly those made before WWII, were designed for cartridges. While the "Safety Automatic"
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.
While a single, official "Iver Johnson Revolver Serial Number Database" doesn't exist, the collective expertise of the community, preserved in books and online forums, forms an incredibly effective and powerful resource. By following this guide, you'll have the tools to join that community and uncover the unique history of your own classic revolver.