Quote:
Originally Posted by mageson1
Am new to these guns but want to buy one. Needs to be over 50 years old to purchase in California. Understand significance of flat latch and have a list of S&W serial numbers tied to dates of manufacture.
However, I am unclear what the significance of "no dash" is. Does it allow someone to be sure about date of manufacture, and if so, what dates were the no dash version made? . . .
|
The Chiefs Special was introduced in 1950 but didn't get assigned the Model 36 designation until roughly 1957 and was produced until 1988 when it was superseded by the Model 36-2. There was a 36-1 introduced in late 1966 but it was for the 3" heavy barrel version and did not replace the Model 36.
More than fifty years old would equate to March 1967 or earlier. In 1969 Model 36 serial numbers began with a letter "J" prefix . . . later embedded in a "floating J" format . . . so don't consider any example with a J in the serial number.
I have s/n 457962 that shipped in January 1967 . . . it happens to be a Model 36-1 but all Model 36s were in the same s/n series. That would suggest looking for a s/n 458000 or lower . . . but a verification of ship date with the factory would be best if it's anywhere close.
Good luck,
Russ