I put a Chiefs Special on layaway today. The serial number is in the 100,000 range so I'm guessing about 1956. It is not marked Model 36. There is no serial number on the bottom of the barrel or rear of the cylinder. I did not pull the stocks to check but they are the correct diamond round butt style. Did S&W stop serializing those parts on J frames about that time ? Also, what was the purpose of the flat latch design ? I don't find it as aesthetically appealing as the standard cylinder release but am guessing that it may prevent the release from gouging one's thumb under recoil.
Thanks