I received this .38 5 shot revolver when my grandfather passed away 6 years ago. I've shot it plenty of time and never had the thought to see what it truly was. Now I'm curious and cannot find any online search data base and instead of buying the book I figured I would ask some well seasoned S&W folks who might might have that book. The serial number is 770647. Having trouble loading pics. Its a stub nose. The serial number is on the bottom of the handle.

is there a letter before the numbers in the serial number?

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There's nowt so queer as folk

You probably have a Chiefs Special. This model was introduced in the early '50s and its many derivative models are still manufactured today. The reported serial number on that one points to 1969 manufacture.

If you swing open the cylinder, do you see a stamping like MOD 36-1 on the exposed portion of the frame?

If you post a picture or two it would help nail down the identification.

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David Wilson

I've been trying to post pictures but for some reason it keeps giving me an error. I swung it open and it reads MOD 36 there is no -1. I had the original box and paper work for it. But its lost in another box somewhere in the mess I call an attick. I also have the original leather holster it came with. I'll try to email myself the pictures from my phone and post them from my computer.

And no there is no letters before the serial number on the grip.

Congratulations, you have a nice revolver. Take the time now and find the original box and papers as this adds greatly to the desirably and value. Keep the box in good condition. There is no original holster as the guns were not issued with the gun. The holster was purchased separately. Speaking for all, pictures of gun and holster would be nice to view.

well out of the 7 photos this is the only one i can get to upload. Is there anyway I could email to to someone and they could post them for me? Im not computer dumb but i just cant figure out why they will not post.

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Nice looking revolver first. I know it has got to be special to you being passed down from your Grandfather. Keep it clean and keep shooting it.

Oh yes i have no intention of ever selling this or even caring about that the value of it is. It will continue to be passed down through the family. It shoots very well. Was actually surprised with the accuracy with it being a stubby. Its on a dime.

Welcome to the forum. I hope you'll stick around, this is a great place hang out, learn and laugh.

That's a very sweet Chief's Special, a fine little carry gun. I hope you'll shoot it and keep it in the family.

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Oh well, what the hell.

As several have already said, welcome to the Forum. Always great to have new members. Especially when they already have a great gun to show off. Chief Specials from that era are finely crafted, almost like watches.

You'll also find many other "first responders" among the membership so you'll feel at home. Stay safe, partner.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

If I read my SCSW correctly, that one would have shipped (or at least been made) in 1968. The SCSW shows 786544 to be the beginning of serial numbers for 1969.
With a 2" standard barrel, it would not be marked as a 36-1, since that designated the 3" heavy barrel.
Nice piece and nice family heritage. Enjoy it!

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Most likely, they are just too large. Try scaling them down a bit.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Nice piece, Enjoy and welcome to the forum!

Welcome to the forum from CT, firstresponder01.

That's my guess too. Use the resize function in your photo editor.
Nice little wheelgun!
This forum is populated by some wonderful, knowledgeable
folks who are more than happy to help those new to
the wonderful world of Smith and Wesson.