What year was my Model 36 Chief's Special made? It is blued with pearl handles. Serial number BJ20xx

Welcome to the forum. Recheck the serial number and be sure it is from the butt of the gun.

I agree. Recheck that number. Early Chiefs Specials (1950 - 1969) s/n ranged from 1 - 786544 with no prefix. J serial prefix's ran from 1969 - 1983. Beginning in 1980-1983 revolver s/n had a three letter prefix followed by four numbers.

__________________
Mike
S&WCA #3065

I wonder if it is 8J20xx. If so, it is c. 1971.

__________________
Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

^^^^^^ I was thinking the same thing.

Has 3" barrel and pearl handles. Blued. Do you suspect the handles are an after market add-on?

How much value would you say these two items have? Bluebook says to add $20 for 3" barrel versus 2"

The condition is very good. BTA, I think

Would you please date my M36 Chiefs Special, square butt, 1 7/8" barrel, S/N J7678XX?

(Is there a publicly available list of serial numbers? If not, where do you find this info?)

Thanks!

^^^^^ 1981. Info is from Standard Catalog of Smith&Wesson 4th edition. This is approx. mfg. date. To get an actual ship date the gun must be lettered.

Thank you!

One last question, if you don't mind. This revolver is in mint condition, with perfect bluing, case colored hammer and pristine bore. I have the original box and tissue paper. What kind of value would you put on it?

I would say to post some pics and have it seen by more members that could give you a better idea what it is worth.

Thanks for all the advice. The serial number is in fact 8J20XX as you predicted. Couple of a more questions: 1.) How can I tell for sure whether my gun is a Ladysmith model or a Chief's Special? I think it's a Chief's Special.

Post a few good pictures.

Made in 1971, as noted earlier. Glad we solved that mystery!


First, the earliest LadySmith was a Model 36. It just had different markings (LadySmith etched on the frame) and stocks that were "anatomically correct" for the female hand), and it came in a different box.

Second, the LadySmith version of the Chiefs Special Model 36 was not introduced until 1989, so a Chiefs Special from 1971 cannot be a LadySmith.

Incidentally, I purchased a first year Model 36 LadySmith brand new as a 16th birthday gift for my daughter. She still has it, along with all the accouterments, in essentially ANIB condition. She has shot it from time to time, but has taken exceptionally good care of it. A few months back, I handled it for the first time in years. I don't suppose she'll ever turn loose of it!

__________________
Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318