Greetings~ Yesterday, I purchased an older S&W Model 60 revolver and am wondering if anyone here can help me to identify its pertinent info., such as year of production and any other useful or interesting items. If so, I'd greatly appreciate it.
It's specs:
- Model 60
- Serial#: R79xx (4 digits)
- Finish: satin stainless steel
- Caliber: 38 S&W SPL.
- Barrel length: 1 7/8"
- Sights: fixed
- Rounded butt, with walnut knurled grips /no diamond.
Does anyone here own this gun? What type of ammo do you use?
Thank you ! ~Calamity Jane

I have one like it...I just shoot mild reloads through it.

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From what I found it was made in 1969. I would practice with standard 38 special ammo. They are normally sighted for 158 gr. Ammo but the lighter wieght loads may have less Recoil. I shoot enough +P to find point of aim and that's my carry load. That's up to you it's probably not rated for +P.

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Two Handguns every day

Thank you, both--helpful to know.
I had assumed that the production/issue year was 1969, due to that 'R' prefix in the serial number but wasn't certain. I'm wondering if this is a Chief's Special--or just a descendent of one.

Again, I am not sure but I think the 36 was the Chief Special.

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Two Handguns every day

Howdy, and welcome aboard from Wyoming.

Yes, your Model 60 is a Chiefs Special.

The original Calamity Jane worked in a dance hall in the 1870s in the town I live near. I've seen a copy of her wedding photo (here); best looking image I've ever seen of her. A friend has a copy of her marriage certificate.

Anyway, that aside, the original Chiefs Special came out in 1950. The revolver became the Model 36 in 1957(8), and S&W released the stainless steel version in 1965 so yours is a relatively early example.

I've included an image of my 1989 version of the Lady Smith (note the name on the image).

Cheers,

Bob

Attached Images

60 LS Martha Jane Canary.jpg (89.0 KB, 66 views)

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Wrangler of stray Chiefs
Bob

I have a mod 60 that came as part of a pair of Smiths I bought and I love it! I shoot standard velocity reloads through it and it's incredibly accurate. I can shoot 2" +/- groups at 20 yards with it!

The official name of your gun is a Chiefs Special Stainless; different steel but otherwise the same gun as the regular Chiefs Special. Enjoy!

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

My Model 60 is a "No Dash" era (old like me). I used standard velocity ammo in mine.
I am "Old School" on ammo. If I want more power, I go to a larger caliber.

Many thanks to all ! for the great tidbits of info. (I will look up original Calamity Jane and try to find some photos and stories on her . Another question I've had; is it alright to practice dry-firing this Chiefs Special revolver with snap-caps in??

Yes, with a centerfire revolver there should be no concern either with a "snap-cap" or dry-firing. Many here use empty brass with a silicone plug in the primer pocket, the part that the "hammer nose" (firing pin) contacts.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Thank you, murphydog . >Very helpful !

I have a model 60 (1983) and have shot +P thru it and it's to much to recover for a accurate second shot. I stick with standard loads and I and very happy with the performance of the gun.

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