The crane is the part that supports the cylinder and attaches the cylinder to the frame.
When you open the cylinder you will see the serial number on the crane or frame at the swivel.
Colt Detective Special revolvers are serialized inside the crane. Here's a hint: that's not the model number. sales@countrygunsmith.net
When you release the catch to the cylinder you should see the serial number stamped on the crane at the swivel.
When you open the crane you should see the serial number in two places. On the frame at the swivel and on the crane under the cylinder across from each other.
Maybe. You need to figure out which .38 your Colt is chambered in. .38 Short Colt and .38 Long Colt guns will not chamber a .38 Special. .38 Colt Special is the same as regular .38 Special. If you cannot tell which caliber it is you need to take it to a gunsmith and have him tell you.
The .38 Short Colt catridge may be safely fired in a .38 Special revolver. Not ALL 38 Colts- .38 Short Colt.
When you release the cylinder from the frame,you should find the serial number at the base of the frame and on the crane at the swivel.
Colt
colt 38 special
Colt .38 New Police was the Colt name for .38 S&W. Same ammo.
Colt
When you open up the cylinder, the serial number would be on the crane by the swivel and on the cylinder frame across from that serial number also.