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07-16-2012, 05:42 PM
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Member
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Join Date: Jul 2011
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Chiefs Special Question
Hey guys,
I am looking at a 36 for sale. The serial # is 123xxx.
I date that before 1957 so would that make it a pre-36?
It also does not indicate a model on the frame.
thanks for any info
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07-16-2012, 07:19 PM
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Moderator
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Yes, official name Chiefs Special, probably shipped in the mid-50s. The collector types only call it a "pre-36" since 1957 when numbers were assigned.
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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220
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07-16-2012, 07:28 PM
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Just realize that S&W has been recycling some of the "old" names. There is the Chief Special revolver and now the Chief Special semi automatic. There is the Lady Smith revolver in .22 caliber and now the Lady Smith revolver in .38 special IIRC built on the model 36 frame. So it does get confusing.
The original Chief Special became the model 36 in 1957 at around serial number 125,000 so the one you are looking at is one of the last "pre model" 36's made.
Hope that helps.
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James Redfield
LM #497
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07-16-2012, 08:54 PM
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US Veteran SWCA Member Absent Comrade
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If the serial number is 123456, I'd be interested in it.
Charlie
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07-16-2012, 09:48 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by NICKDCI
Hey guys,
I am looking at a 36 for sale. The serial # is 123xxx.
I date that before 1957 so would that make it a pre-36?
It also does not indicate a model on the frame.
thanks for any info
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It actually dates to production within 1957 albeit it may have shipped in 1958. So it's officially a "Model of 1953 Chiefs Special" produced on the 'cusp' and is just barely a pre Mod 36 (a collector term) since it's not stamped. It should have a flat latch and diamond stocks.
If produced from 1950 when introduced, but prior to the Model of 1953 it's officially referred to as "Cheifs Special" or Baby J frame (another collector term). That's because they have the smaller tirgger guard and grip frame of the I frames.
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Jim
S&WCA #819
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07-17-2012, 04:42 AM
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They are nice old guns and if it is in good condition and the price reasonable, go for it!
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