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S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 All 5-Screw & Vintage 4-Screw SWING-OUT Cylinder REVOLVERS, and the 35 Autos and 32 Autos


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Old 01-24-2017, 06:39 AM
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Default Chief Special Target Research & Survivors List Redux

UPDATE / CLEANUP DATA: 02/09/2020. Fixed some typographical errors (including a serial number on a 36-1) and grammar.
UPDATE / CLEANUP: 10/10/19. Update, add 1959 CST SN: 150042 NOT MODEL MARKED. Thanks, Tim.
UPDATE: 4/22/19 Data reviised and updated. Keep sending data, please.
UPDATE: 8/19/18, Data revised and updated. Keep sending data. It is much appreciated. All data is kept confidential.
UPDATE: 7/17/17, Revisions entered today. Need all CST Serial Numbers up to and including the Model 50 marked series.
UPDATE: 3/10/17, Needing those CST2 149xxx-150xxx serial numbers and the CST3 Model 36 and 36-1 stamped Target models.
UPDATE: 2/6/17, after consulting with Joe Cebull, we will include ALL Model 36 stamped Chief Special Target models and all the 36-1, 3" barrel special productions. Basically, we're including all Chief Special Target models up to approximately 1977.

Years ago, Joe Cebull started and nurtured a "survivor's list" on the early Chief Special Target models, .38 Special caliber. I helped Joe as much as I could back then (as did other members), however, during the subsequent years the project came to a stand-still and then forgotten.

All this would not have been possible without the interest of Joe Cebull who ( many years back ) caught me buying CSTs then started to coach me and finally putting the bite on me for serial numbers. My deepest appreciation and tribute goes to Joe Cebull.

Now, all these years later, with the abundant number of both members of this website and increased number of S&W Collector's Association members, I would like feedback from those who would be willing to participate.

Your submission can be kept confidential by PM or EM to me, personally.

For this particular research I would like to begin only with the flat latch models. In short, only the Chief's Special Target models in the 55xxx to 57xxx, and, the 149xxx to 150xxx serial number ranges. Also all the Model 36 (no dash) and 36-1 (mostly 3" target models).

NOW, including all the Model 50 marked, 60-1 Ashland.

I will also include a list of those that had been posted for sale on a reputable website but you cannot include a current auction number or location of that auction ... if it is still pending. If it has been sold, then you could include the link to the SOLD auction page.

Remember, most of those auctioned at some time in the past, will eventually be deleted or unavailable after awhile, so, better to copy and paste the description and photographs so we will always have the photos years later instead of coming up with the "images no longer available" as time passes.

Also, include any / all the Chief Special Target Airweight revolvers no matter what the serial number.

I will reserve this post #1 for revisions and updates to this thread and post #2 for the actual list of serial numbers, finish, barrel length, round or square butt,a true evaluation of condition (% factory finish, matte, bright, refinished, etc). List if all part match (frame, barrel, cyoinder face) Type of box e.g. Red, starburst, pre-bangor punta and a picture of the box-end label if you have it. Also, if riginal or replacement box, with or without matching numbers and special markings on box, e.g. some have TARG in black grease marker on the label, others have a "T" in white lacquer type marker on the bottom, etc.)

Include any / all notable features, e.g. I have one with a gold or brass insert dove-tailed into on the front sight blade serrated to match the serrations on the steel ramp of the sight..

If you have a S&W Letter from Roy, no matter how old the letter is, please feel free to post it as well and / or email a PDF scan of that letter to me or just send the shipping date and to whom it was shipped.

I am also interested in the Chief's Special Target Airweights of which are also reported to have been produced in limited quantities but less often encountered.

Those who are interested and would like to post pictures and a few words:

>>> PLEASE do not use a "quote" to any of the threads so we don't get a disarrayed assortment of new posts that could end up being anywhere in the pages, like the Victory thread, which has so much great info but has so many inserts you never know where a new post actually is until you search for it. It makes it very difficult to follow the timeline of the post in date order.

Those who would like to remain anonymous please "e-Mail" me via my email address listed in my profile on this forum. (do not send an internal message.

In the subject bar, please type only: "CST research". All data supplied to be strictly confidential. No names of owners will be posted on the list, even if you include a subsequent post with forum name in another post, the main list will not show anyone's name.

Any questions, please email me.

This should be a fantastic asset for all collectors, past, present and future. On those I list I am considering the source of where and when acquired.

Thank you. R.S. "Sal" Raimondi, Sr.
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Old 01-24-2017, 06:40 AM
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Default Early Chief Special Target survivors List Rev: 2/9/20

CST survivors and research list in progress:

All noted "old list" were all from the labor of Joe Cebull as listed on the old S&WCA on Yahoo groups.

SN:xxxxxx- FINISH & Type--- Condition BBL BOX Latch Type - Parts SN Match - STOCKS - Date Shipped To Whom

Unless otherwise noted, all are Post-war matte blue, 2" Barrel, square butt, 2nd type flat latch. Diamond walnut magna stocks.

>>> NOTE: ALL DATA and SN's hereafter listed are verified as accurate by either myself, Joe Cebull and / or all the members of the S&WCA who participated freely, our sincere thanks, from Joe Cebull and Sal Raimondi, Sr.

55060 97% 2", ALL ORIG exc.Grips, ,(Shipped 3/23/1955.1980 letter, doesn't indicate to whom. Shpped to HH Harris per Ray Brazille (RIP)
>>> Note: While SN: 55050 is in the records as "the" lowest SN CST1, 55060 is the oldest, of record, to be documented as still with us
55072 95% as reported by owner. Added 4/3/18. Thank you, Bob. Shipped September 1955 per Roy Jinks.
55089 in box (from old list) Updated 9/16/19, data mined from auction offering. Box appears renumbered but correct vintage & type box.
55096 (sold 9-20-2020), excellent condition with box. suspect box may be a substitute made from original vintage correct box(es) or a OEM Factory "slap together"but matches nicely. Extremely clean (per photos) except for pronounced and shiny drag line on cylinder.
55097 (details to follow) from old list
55373 (details to follow) from old list
55399 in higher condition range. updated / revised 3/13/18 Shipped 3/23/55. S&W letter and photo published by another member.
55404 (details to follow) from old list
55408 Exc 97% + (photos here post 7 & 8) All match. In correct numbered box. Nice !
57731 (details to follow) from old list
57740 examined by author Sept 2016. heavily but nicely cleaned over right side pitting.likely refinished. (added from notes 12/15/16)
57743 (with box) from old list
57760 99% All nos. match (from old list) Devine Auction 1997 (revised 7/17/17)
57782 98% All match, grips replaced with oversized OEM S&W Smooth target grips. (Revised 7/17/17) (GunShow find 1992)
57783 99% +"A" factory eng., Aug.29, 1955 to HH Harris, 1 of 2 engraved CSTs in this shipment. Wayne Betz Estate (rev 7/17/17)
57789 98%, all match exc.grips. Repl w/OEM of same vintage, (Revised 7/17/17) from old list.
-57801 BOX ONLY, no gun. Box in appx 70% condition, Ebay find (from Chicago) appx 2010. (added 2/8/17)
57803 99% +"B" factory engraved, w/letter shipped June 24, 1955 to HH Harris (Wayne Betz Estate) (revised 2/8/17)
57804 (condition to follow) shipped to H. H. Harris on March 23, 1955, invoice shows ordered on 9-2-1954. (revised data 12/26/18)
57819 -Bright Ref Non Factory 99% 2" ALL Match (added 1/24/17) Resold online 8/2017. R-S '59 w/heavily buffed S&W logo but nice.
57820, (added 2/6/2017) blue, 2", sq butt, 90%, all matching, no box.
57823 99% +"A" factory eng, w/letter shipped Aug 29,1955 to HH Harris (Betz Estate) 2nd of 2 engraved CST in shipment.(rev. 2/8/17)
57831 Reported on this forum in Aug. 2014 (posted to the list 2/18/2017. By owner: Rust in finish as if had been a tackle box gun.
57836 99% All match. (Revised 7/17/17) from Joe Cebull's old list
57852 99% All match (Rev 7/17/17) (Devine Auct 1997?) Shipped March 29, 1955, 1975 S&W letter doesn't indicate to whom shipped.
57857 (added 2/6/17, revised 5/9/17) blue, 2", sq butt, 95%, all matching, no box, spots
57878 98% All match, (revised 7/17/17) from old list
57883 Engraved (non factory) Letters as shipped plain blue CST, not engraved. from old list
57886 (details to follow) from old list
57890 NON-Factory Engraved, Refinished Nickel, REVISED 3/2/17, spotted on line for sale in 2007 (Sal's notes) SN only from old list
57905 99% (Devine Auction) shipped April 8, 1955 to HH Harris (revised 2/8/17)
57907 97% original, all match, gold (or brass) front sight insert (added 1/24/17) Shipped to HH Harris, March 31, 1955
>>> NOTE: While 57907 is the highest SN CST1 verified to exist, records show 1 or 2 more with marginally higher SNs.

>>> next entry is outside the known SN sequence for 1955 shipments but no where near the known SN Sequence for the 1959 shipments.

67812 ANIB, 1955 frame w/upper side plate plate screw, flat latch, premium blue finish, shipped June 11, 1959 to H.H.Harris. (Rev.4/25/19)

>>>> Everything here after: Unless otherwise noted, all are Original bright blue, 2" Barrel, adjustable rear sight leaf.

>>>> ODD BALLS:
102468 CST Airweight Target 2", shipped August 18, 1957, to Harvan Sporting Goods, NYC, NY.
125744 (details to follow) Steel frame, Round butt, from Joe Cebull's old list.

>>> 2nd production (CST2) 1957-1959. Seems SN sequence do not correspond as to whether Model 36 stamped or not.
Unless otherwise noted, all are bright blue, 2" Barrel, square butt, 2nd type flat latch. Diamond walnut magna stocks.
-------- (CST2s reported / verified to exist >>>
149821 (details to follow) from old list
149837 (details to follow) from old list
149858 (details to follow) from old list
149868 (added 2/7/2017) Not Model Marked, ANIB, Red insert front sight. Shipped to HH Harris on ??/??/1959
149874 (added 2/7/17) spotted online from reputable dealer 99%+NNIB, No Model Number, shipped to HH Harris June 30, 1959
149880 (details to follow) from old list
>149880 Box Only (added 7/17/17) (came with SN 150133)
149900-Not Model Marked Bright Blue/ORIG (fm old list) ANIB 2" Pre-BP ORIG FL2 ALL match ORIG 2/1957 ?
149910-Not model number, shipped March 1959, reported as "very good condition" with box
149922 (details to follow) from old list
149934-Shown in another thread: Help Identifying This Revolver
149941 (details to follow) from old list
149995 80-85% finish. All original except the grips. (thank you BC38, added 2/19/20)
150000 (details to follow) from old list
150019-Mod 36 marked. 97% Orig Bright Blue. All match, box may not be the original mentioned: Help Identifying This Revolver
150022-Not Model marked, Bright Blue Original 98%+ (per member)No box. added 10/9/17
150023-Not Model marked, condition like new, reported from reliable source / member (added 3/13/18)
150042-Not Model Marked. Condition: Left Side, undamaged. right side ok light damage with sporadic surface rust (cleaned) on top strap and uppers. Damage ahead of SN on butt as if had something welded on, then taken off. More data needed. Added 10/10/2019.
150053 (details to follow) from old list
150072-Not Model Marked, Shipped Sept 1961, Condition seems exc 97% Data mined from old forum post, Revised 8/19/18
150098 Model 36 (details by Joe Cebull 2/5/17) 99% gun marked Mod.36. Shipped May 12, 1966 to Texas Gun Clinic Inc., Houston, TX.
150122 in a S&WCA member's collection. Condition unknown. (revised 8/6/17)
150132 (details to follow) from old list
150133 Not Model marked (REV 7/17/17) original documentation from old list

>>>> MODEL 36 Marked: (CST3) 3rd production run. Scattered numbers usually in the late 391xxx and early 392xxx SN range.
Unless otherwise noted, all are bright blue, 2" Barrel, square butt, thumb indent cylinder release. Diamond walnut magna stocks.
Blue pre-Bangor Punta Blue Box w/solid silver border stripe unless nickel which are silver box w/blue border stripe (not grey).
-------
391780 Non-Factory Nickel finish (refinish). I purchased this in 1999 from Devine and immediately returned.
391800 97% +/- no box noticed for sale / sold 2/4/18 GB
391816 XX % Model 36, 2" target (more date forthcoming 4/26/18)
391902 XX % Model 36, 2" target (more date forthcoming 4/26/18)
391925 99% Model 36, 2" Target
391930 99% Model 36, 2" Target
391997 condition unknown, SN Verified by member in 1999 (old notes)
391998 condition unknown, SN Verified by member in 1999 (old notes)
392075 99% Model 36, 2" Target
393471 (from old list) reported to be factory nickel but not verified as such. SN Verified by member in 1999 (old notes)

>>>> MODEL 36-1 (TARGET) , 3" barrel, 213 made in 1975 (CST4) 2 piece Bangor Punta blue box.
Unless otherwise noted, all are bright blue, 2" Barrel, square butt, thumb indent cyl/ release. Walnut magna stocks
------

2J3222 As new, no box (added 8/7/17)
2J3277 New in Box, all papers, cleaning kit & SAT (added 7/18/17) (consecutive SN set with next)
2J3278 New in Box, all papers, cleaning kit & SAT (added 7/18/17) (SN corrected 2/9/2020)
2J4384, New in box (at last sighting in 2004)

>>>> MODEL 50 Marked (CST5), 2 piece Bangor Punta Blue Box
Unless otherwise noted, all are bright blue, 2" Barrel, square butt, thumb indent cylinder release. Walnut magna stocks
------
930J79 Mod 50, 2", SB, Blued, Numbered grips, 90% (added 2/19/20, thank you jselect)
930J88 New in Box (2006 records)
930J89 New in Box (2006 records)
932j28, 98% in the box (added 3/6/18)
932J75 New in Box, papers (no Model 50 parts list printed), with Cleaning kit (added 7/18/17)
933J78 New in Box, Papers (no Model 50 parts list printed), with Cleaning kit (added 7/18/17)
935J56, 97% (as reported) with box tools, ammo pamphlet and warranty card (added 7/8/19)
935J63 Exc Condition. Std Model 50 configuration. correct but not original box. (added 8/21/17, from member's 2005 record)

>>>> MODEL 60-1 Target / production run for Ashland 1984-1985,
Unless otherwise noted, 2", SS, Adj. Rear sight, round butt, walnut stocks in fold-over S&W blue box.

PLEASE SEND IN YOUR SERIAL NUMBERS ......

ALU0737 2" shipped 1986, condition not stated. (added 3/4/18)
ALU1425 2" (added 8/21/18) NNIB per owner w/box,papers+un-used tools, no screw driver. Bought new 6-29-85 $279.00 fm Gun Shack Phoenix AZ.
ALU1562 (added 8/22/17)
ALU1917 2" Stainless Steel, New in Box (added 3/6/18)
ALU2080, 2", Stainless Steel Shipped 21 May 1985, condition not stated (added 3/4/18)
ALU2142 NIB 2" Stainless Steel, walnut stocks (added 8/22/17)
ALU3228 NIB 2" Stainless Steel, walnut stocks (added 8/22/17)
ALU4168 (added 8/22/17)
ALU4825 (data mined from this forum 9/26/20) with original box & papers, light use. appx 95%
AIV0609 97%(added 8/22/17)


>>>> ALL others

BEA7977, Model 36-6, 3", blue, new in box (added 3/6/18)
BEA8859, Model 36-6, 3", blue (added 4/3/18) Condition unreported.
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Last edited by model3sw; 09-26-2020 at 11:25 AM. Reason: Data updated 2/09/20
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Old 01-24-2017, 10:36 AM
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Sal,

I'll start you off with #57819, 99% non-factory refinish, 2" blue, all matching.

Bob
[IMG]http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae261/hart6314/Chief%20Target_zpsmz**o9y5.jpg[/IMG]
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Old 01-24-2017, 11:13 AM
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Do the 60-1's count? One of the special run for Ashland in 1986
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Old 01-24-2017, 12:04 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike, SC Hunter View Post
Do the 60-1's count? One of the special run for Ashland in 1986
Mike, right now we're just going for the CST1 and CST2 of the 1950s. It is such a large project i figure to take it in stages but, yes, the Asland 60-1 does certainly count. Thank you.
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Old 01-24-2017, 09:44 PM
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Probably a dumb question, but was there ever a BABY Chief Target?

Froggie
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Old 01-25-2017, 12:34 AM
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Here is 55408 still with it's box. All original. This gun came it my local shop from an estate. The guy was a S&W collector from the 50s. He had some with his initials factory engraved. this was one of the gems I got from the collection. I also got a High Standard USMC target pistol from the same collection.


CST 006.JPG

CST 009.jpg

CST 014.jpg

CST 030.JPG

CST 023.JPG
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Old 01-25-2017, 12:36 AM
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A few more pictures.

CST 003.JPG

CST 018.JPG

CST 005.JPG
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Old 01-25-2017, 02:27 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Green Frog View Post
Probably a dumb question, but was there ever a BABY Chief Target?

Froggie
Froggie, Not that I've seen unless there had been a special order for one prior to the early 1955 manufacture. Serial numbers, lowest that we have verification of is 55060. I have been adivsed there was a 55040 but has not yet showed up over all these years. The highest Serial Number we have verification of is 57907 and it has a gold (or brass) insert on the front sight. That is the only one I've seen with that feature. The insert is serrated uniformly with the serrations on the steel part of the sight blade.

Compare a Baby Chief (SN 12xxx) over the treasury seal of a $2.00 bill (for a visual size comparison) to a Chief Special Target (one of the engraved) to visualize the different size of the trigger guards.
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File Type: jpg Chief CST1 TG Size compare.jpg (87.9 KB, 185 views)
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Old 01-25-2017, 02:34 AM
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Default Early Chief Special Target Airweight

View picture of the only Chief Special Target Airweight (No model number) I have ever seen SN: 125744. May have been a production model, a R&D piece or a professional conversion to target sights. If a conversion the work is excellent. Note high wing target sight on Airweigth 2" barrel. I cannot find the letter on it 25+ years ago, but IIRC it came back as only a Chief's Special Airweight, period. No mention of target sights nor any other special work.
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File Type: jpg Chief AW Tgt Barrel IMG_0551.jpg (80.0 KB, 110 views)
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Old 01-25-2017, 02:55 AM
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Note (on the left) 3 Factory Engraved CST1s. All shipped to HH Harris in Chicago, 2 of them shipped in the same order on the same day.

I will update the data as I receive it.

On the right, top is 55060, the lowest SN that has ever surfaced, to date. Beneath that is 57907, the highest SN CST1 that has ever surfaced, to date.

The bottom right is a baby chief placed there for comparison of frame size & trigger guard as compared to CST1s.
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Old 01-25-2017, 12:08 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mikebiker View Post
A few more pictures.
Mike. Excellent ! Can you add to this post (edit / advanced) a full size picture of the entire bottom of the box ?

Usually there is the Serial Number toward the top then a "T" toward the center and another sequence, order, or stock number under that hand written with either a braod tip lacquer pencil or white grease marker.

Unfortunately I don't have one of the first run with the correct box but I do have just a box for a CST1 I purchased on ebay years ago that is in sorry condition. Upon making connection with the seller of the box, he stated his father was a LEO in Chicago (no surprise there as most (if not all) were shipped to HH Harris in Chicago. Unfortunately, his father passed years ago and the CST was long gone.
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Old 02-05-2017, 08:16 PM
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Default CST

Hey Sal
I'm here(finally)! This d**m knee replacement has had me tied to a recliner too long! Thank you for reviving this endeavor! It's going to take me a couple days to catch up with the new data!
Thanks to all (and Sal)!
Joe
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Old 02-05-2017, 09:10 PM
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Sal,
Here's a little detail on #150098 which is in your list in the first post. It is a second production variation, 99% gun marked Mod.36. It was one of 198 guns which were produced in 1959 but was a very late shipper since it didn't go out until May 12, 1966. Recipient was the Texas Gun Clinic Inc., Houston, TX.

Joe,
Glad to hear that you are making progress. Keep up the rehab!

Bob
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Old 02-05-2017, 09:16 PM
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Originally Posted by jcelect View Post
Hey Sal
I'm here(finally)! This d**m knee replacement has had me tied to a recliner too long! Thank you for reviving this endeavor! It's going to take me a couple days to catch up with the new data!
Thanks to all (and Sal)!
Joe
Take your time and thank you. This all started from your original research years ago. You were the first one that I know of that took a deep collecting interest in the Chief's Specials.
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Old 02-06-2017, 11:39 AM
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Default Chief Special Target survivors

Sal, the J frame target models are a special interest of mine. Thanks to you and Joe for collecting this information. Here are three more survivors for your list, left to right.
1) Chief Special target number 57820, blue, 2", sq butt, 90%, all matching, no box.
2) Chief Special target number 57857, blue, 2", sq butt, 95%, all matching, no box.
3) Model 36 no dash target, number 150019, blue, sq butt,97%, all matching. This came in a starburst box with no end label and no number on bottom of box, so I have serious doubts about the box.CIMG1305.jpg

CIMG1309.jpg
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Old 02-07-2017, 03:35 PM
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I would like to thank all of you for coming through with such outstanding enthusiasm.

I have been talking with Joe Cebull.

We will include all MODEL36 stamped CSTs (3rd version) and all 36-1 Target serial numbers.
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Old 02-07-2017, 05:43 PM
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You can add 149868 a non-model marked target to the list, I owned this for a few years.





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Old 02-07-2017, 05:57 PM
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Will the list expand to include later guns? Like the Model 50?
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Old 02-07-2017, 09:42 PM
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Will the list expand to include later guns? Like the Model 50?
Yes, eventually we will get them all. We're trying to get all the early CSTs first,then we'll go for the Model 50s and 60-1 Ashand models.
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Old 02-07-2017, 09:44 PM
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You can add 149868 a non-model marked target to the list, I owned this for a few years.
George, do you have the shipping details ? Seems would be a special order with the front sight insert. Sal
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Old 02-08-2017, 12:01 AM
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I had two letters on the gun, it shipped to H.H. Harris in 1959, one letter was from the Spokane Symposium with just a ship date and the other was an older letter from the former owner who lurks here on the forum, "blue finish & adjustable target sights" is all that is mentioned.
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Old 02-10-2017, 03:39 PM
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Revisions added. Also, all MODEL 36 and 36-1 models to be added to current list. Please send / post. Thank you.
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Old 02-16-2017, 01:13 AM
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Revisions added.
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Old 03-02-2017, 02:55 PM
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Revised & updated today. Still need more numbers. Please report, guys.
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Old 03-10-2017, 02:57 PM
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NEED those CST2 NUMBER and all MODEL36 Targets now ....
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Old 04-23-2017, 01:27 PM
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Time for a bump. We need numbers boys? ! ?! ? ! ?
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Old 04-23-2017, 10:27 PM
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I have #57381. Square butt, blue, in about 80% condition. I got it from Louisiana and it looks loke some old Cajun fisherman carried it in his tackle box for years, but thee price was appropriate for the condition.
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Old 04-24-2017, 05:41 PM
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I have #57381. Square butt, blue, in about 80% condition. I got it from Louisiana and it looks loke some old Cajun fisherman carried it in his tackle box for years, but thee price was appropriate for the condition.
Tom, recheck that serial number, I have 57831 on the list that was also from Louisiana. A few years back the owner reported looked like it had been a tackle box gun. Do you have 57831 or 57381 ? Sal
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Old 04-24-2017, 06:24 PM
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Sal: My Bad! I rechecked the number on my inventory sheet and it is indeed 57831. I transposed a couple of digits in my latest post.
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Old 04-24-2017, 06:43 PM
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Sal: My Bad! I rechecked the number on my inventory sheet and it is indeed 57831. I transposed a couple of digits in my latest post.
Tom
Tom, no apologies necessary. We all make mistakes ... that's why we have our friends to watch over us when we need it most. Best Regards, Sal

PS: If you get tired of looking at that Louisiana swamp rat, my son would likely go for it.
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Old 04-25-2017, 09:27 AM
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Ser. number 149910 ,no model number, shipped 1959.
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Old 04-25-2017, 11:53 AM
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Ser. number 149910, no model number, shipped 1959.
What condition is it in and do you have "the" correct box ? Thank you. Sal
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Old 04-26-2017, 07:34 AM
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Very good condition, have correct box.
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Old 05-09-2017, 12:42 AM
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list revised and updated today.
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Old 05-23-2017, 10:12 AM
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A bump for me and Joe Cebull. Any new serial numbers out there ? NOW accepting all CSTs up to and including the Model 36 and Model 36-1 marked. Your response to me via email or private message will be kept confidential ... or ... you can reply here on the forum.
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Old 05-30-2017, 03:51 AM
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Default Requesting help with Identification

Hello Ladies and Gentleman, I am a self proclaimed newbie when it comes to this forum and revolvers. I own several firearms, rifles, shotguns and I carry a gun everyday and have for the last 20 plus years however, I don't know much about revolvers. A couple of days ago, I was able to purchase an old Smith and Wesson which based on my several hours of reading the various forums I can conclude it is somesort of Chiefs Special. I managed to purchase this firearm from a man in his 70's who stated he bought the gun in 1971 for a part time security job he had for a couple of years. I failed to ask him if he bought it new or used however he did not have the box for it. I am still confused whether it's a Model 37, Model 36, Chief Special, Chiefs Special or some other variation. I was looking to find out the approximate date of manufacturing, shipment date from the factory and maybe the dealer it was shipped to. I know this is a lot of information that I am requesting but any bit would help. I really like the firearm and plan to keep it and carry it on rare occasion. I did a pretty thorough inspection with a flashlight and magnafine glass and it appears to be structurally intact. The blueing and the rest of the firearm appear to be in good condition with the exception of a few wear marks from sitting in a holster. No rust or any real pitting are evident. It came with a nice old Bianchi leather holster and leather ammo holder. The marking on the firearm are as follows:
Right Side: (2) Screws only and on the barrel AIRWEIGHT with 38 SPL CTG
Left Side: SMITH & WESSON on left side of barrel and the Smith and Wesson trademark insignia below the cylinder release
Yoke: No model number and a series of weird numbers which don't make sense to me. 1340 7 65
Serial #130711 on the bottom of the handle on the butt of the firearm.
Again, any and all information would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, Greg
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Old 05-30-2017, 08:16 AM
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Originally Posted by Greg617ma View Post
Hello Ladies and Gentleman, I am a self proclaimed newbie when it comes to this forum and revolvers. I own several firearms, rifles, shotguns and I carry a gun everyday and have for the last 20 plus years however, I don't know much about revolvers. A couple of days ago, I was able to purchase an old Smith and Wesson which based on my several hours of reading the various forums I can conclude it is somesort of Chiefs Special. I managed to purchase this firearm from a man in his 70's who stated he bought the gun in 1971 for a part time security job he had for a couple of years. I failed to ask him if he bought it new or used however he did not have the box for it. I am still confused whether it's a Model 37, Model 36, Chief Special, Chiefs Special or some other variation. I was looking to find out the approximate date of manufacturing, shipment date from the factory and maybe the dealer it was shipped to. I know this is a lot of information that I am requesting but any bit would help. I really like the firearm and plan to keep it and carry it on rare occasion. I did a pretty thorough inspection with a flashlight and magnafine glass and it appears to be structurally intact. The blueing and the rest of the firearm appear to be in good condition with the exception of a few wear marks from sitting in a holster. No rust or any real pitting are evident. It came with a nice old Bianchi leather holster and leather ammo holder. The marking on the firearm are as follows:
Right Side: (2) Screws only and on the barrel AIRWEIGHT with 38 SPL CTG
Left Side: SMITH & WESSON on left side of barrel and the Smith and Wesson trademark insignia below the cylinder release
Yoke: No model number and a series of weird numbers which don't make sense to me. 1340 7 65
Serial #130711 on the bottom of the handle on the butt of the firearm.
Again, any and all information would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, Greg
Hi, Greg. Even though it is not a Chief Special "Target" model, what you have there is a Chief Special Airweight or pre-37. Likely produced around 1957-1958 (by the serial number) but the shipping date may be a surprise sometimes as many models did not "ship" in the same sequence or relative to the serial number on many models. On "this" model pre-37 the shipping date should be about the same time as the manufacture.

Earlier models had an alloy cylinder. By this serial number S&W was well into the steel cylinders as the alloy cylinders proved to be weak and were prone to failure.

You can try a magnet on the cylinder just to be sure but just at a glance it appears to have the correct steel cylinder. You will discover the magnet sticks to the cylinder while if you try the magnet on the frame (choose an area with no steel behind it, e.g. the back strap between the wood stocks / grips, you will notice the magnet does not attract.

I have found the most common area of the pre-37 and model 37s that are prone to stress / weakness is the frame itself and the very thin area where the barrel screws in. If you open the cylinder, turn the gun upside down and examine the frame where the barrel screws in, from the bottom view you can inspect there for a crack or evidence of fatigue.

These were never intended for +P ammo and should be used with standard .38 S&W Special (non +P) loads only when necessary to use as self defense, I feel.

For example, it you took this gun (if in new or as new condition) to the range every week for a year, to run 50-100 rounds through it, you would soon discover a stress crack in the area described.

Although I have not ever encountered one of the early alloy cylinder versions which are found mostly in the 23,000 to 32,000 serial number range, having a cracked or failed alloy cylinder, I have frequently come upon those same models with the frame either fatigued or cracked in the area described.

If you have the original box for it, too, which should be a blue "starburst" S&W box, you've got a nice one there from what I can see of the picture. The box should be similar to the box shown in post 18 except with the Airweight designation on the label.

The most collectible pre-37s are the early production models with the alloy cylinder. Some of these pre-37s and the sister 6-shot pre-12s were ordered by the US Air Force for their pilots in the 1953-56 time frame (or thereabout).

The USAF, in conjunction with S&W, came up with a lesser powered .38 Special just for these 2 alloy cylinder model S&Ws but were quickly and subsequent scrapped, by being de-milled (destroyed) by the USAF.

Any of the USAF marked models from the 1953-1956 time frame that escaped destruction hold a VERY high value depending on authenticity and verification of being authentic.

So coveted and expense as they've become, both USAF (Pre-37 and pre-12 S&W models) better known as the AirCrewman for the 6-shot pre 12 and Baby AirCrewman for the pre-37 versions, they are prime fodder for fakery. The U.S.A.F. AirCrewman (S&W pre-model 12) was a USAF Model 13, which usually causes some confusion with collectors unfamiliar with the U.S. model number (or name) designations.

This fakery so advanced that many de-milled USAF guns have been rebuilt. While most are poorly faked, there are some out there that are quite impressive. There are S&WCA collectors with databases on these guns, known originals and some known fakes. Fakes would include either a Non-USAF model enhanced with USAF markings to make it appear as if the USAF model and also include the rebuilt de-milled models. The latter are very tricky as the number would return a letter that it was USAF issues, thus, the value relies on the affirmation from a reliable source that the gun is, in fact, an original USAF gun that escaped destruction.

Those "weird" numbers you speak of are likely the assembly / fitment numbers which have no relevance to the serial number. The number imprinted on the frame (visible with cylinder open where you would find the Model Number stamped on newer models) and the steel swing-out crane should both be numbered alike. Further there should be other markings under the grips used for in-factory / production purposes. If a few of those serial numbers, e.g. 7.65 appears under the grips (usually on the left side of the grip frame) that means it had been back to the factory for a repair or refinish in July(7th month) of 1965.

Can you include a few pix of the stampings on the grip frames (both sides) with the grips removed and a few pix of the numbers on the frame in the crane area.

The actual serial numbers of the gun should appear on the underside of the barrel (visible with cylinder open) on the face of the cylinder and on the butt. Those should all match.

Hope this helps.
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Old 07-17-2017, 12:29 PM
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>>>> Some new revisions. Please remember send in your serial numbers up to and including the Model 50 Marked CSTs. This includes all NON model marked, Model 36, 361 and Model 50s. Thankyou.
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Old 08-06-2017, 04:51 AM
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>>>> Bumping to top. Help us complete the survivors list of Chief Special Targets. Sal
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Old 08-06-2017, 05:28 AM
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Blue Mod 36-1 Target, one of 213 made in 1975, Sq Butt, target trigger, pinned 3" HB with a front sight ramp. New not in box, truly looks unfired. # 2J3222
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Old 08-21-2017, 05:36 PM
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Model marked MOD 50, serial 935J63. 2 inch, blue, plain ramp front, square butt, checkered walnut Magna stocks. "Correct but not original box", used but excellent condition. From Lyle Larkworthy in 2005.
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Old 08-21-2017, 05:47 PM
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Model marked MOD 50, serial 935J63. 2 inch, blue, plain ramp front, square butt, checkered walnut Magna stocks. "Correct but not original box", used but excellent condition. From Lyle Larkworthy in 2005.
thank you for your input, from myself and Joe Cebull. Joe is the originator of the survivor's list of Chief Special Target models.
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Old 08-21-2017, 06:44 PM
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Do the 60-1's count? One of the special run for Ashland in 1986
Mike, now taking SNs on model 60-1 Ashland CSTs.
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Old 08-22-2017, 04:49 AM
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Model 60-1 2 inch, round butt, ALU3228, I bought new in 1985. One of the Ashland guns.
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Old 08-22-2017, 05:12 AM
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Man you guys have got some cool guns and I am talking real cool not just regular. I don't have anything to add just wanted to compliment and say thanks for taking the time to post.
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Old 08-22-2017, 07:12 AM
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Model 60-1 2 inch, round butt, ALU3228, I bought new in 1985. One of the Ashland guns.
Thanks for the info.
What condition is it in and do you have "the" correct box / papers ? Sal
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Old 08-22-2017, 01:47 PM
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Still unfired post factory in it's box. I may have sent in the warranty card but everything else would still be there.
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Old 10-09-2017, 09:20 PM
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bump to top ..... SN: 150022 added today.
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Last edited by model3sw; 10-09-2017 at 09:47 PM.
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Old 11-26-2017, 09:09 AM
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>>> would like to rejuvenate this thread to ascertain many more additional serial numbers. You can email me directly to maintain privacy. I need your help. Sal
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