I haven't received it yet but I was wondering what kind of grips are on it and if its possible to identify if it is a square or round grip frame so I can start looking for some nice wood.

Pachmyer....

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S&W Accumulator

I thought they looked alike but didnt know they made them without the lion emblem. Judging from this pick of a round but 36 and square but 34, both with compacs, it looks like the grips screw is closer to the front of the grip like on the one with a square but.

Both the logo and plain variety are Pachmyar Compac grips . . . and both were/are made for round and square butt J-frames. I find them ideal for absorbing recoil and improved handling . . . they point naturally for me.

Not sure when, but the screw hole was moved to reduce interference with the leaf-type hammer spring . . . not as much of an issue with the newer coil spring. You'll also find Compacs with a grip screw that is turned down to a smaller diameter in the middle section to provide hammer spring relief.

Russ

Take the grips off and you'll instantly be able to see if its round or square butt.

The screw can be in slightly different places due to the location of the mainspring. There is a flat screw behind the grips that you don't want being bent against the grip screw.

If you don't mind me asking Agent, what are they asking for the 34-1. I have my eye on one as well. On the fence yet about the price. The one I'm looking at has wood target grips (maker unknown) and the originals come with it, for $550.00. Thanks.

I missed your first question on my earlier response . . . I have both round and square butt Compacs and cannot tell the difference from the outside profile . . . but they are very different inside so they're not interchangeable.

I'd wait to start looking for your nice wood stocks until you have it in your hand and can remove the Pachs.

Russ

I gave $550 but I have seen them go from 450-650 depending on condition and people asking as much as 800-1000 NIB.