No data source known.
No model numbers used before @ 1957. After that, look inside the crane/yoke area.
Standard catalog of Smith and Wesson by supica and nahas
Find a book with sn lists for S&W. The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson, by Supica and Nahas has what you are looking for.
Call Smith and Wesson with the serial number and the will tell you.
Go to Smith and Wesson's website and they will send you one for free.
Smith and Wesson began listing serial numbers in 1984 with a three letter prefix to there serial numbers.So you should be able to identify the year of manufacture by the 3 letter prefix and then the following number.Smith and Wesson began production of the model 4046 in 1991,and discontinued this model in 1999.The Smith and Wesson model 4046 Tactical was made from 2000-2002.I hope you find this of interest.
You will need to buy or find a copy of the Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson.
62092
You will have to find a copy of The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson and check each model number.
Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson, 3rd, edition
Model numbers did not come into use until the mid 50's. Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson by Supica and Nahas is the reference you need.