I have been wanting to replace a Model 36 I sold while in college in the early 80s. Yesterday I was given one by a good friend. The bluing is good but like me it's worn in a few places. The lock up is tight.
The aftermarket grips will be replaced with factory wood this week.
If someone with knowledge of manufacture dates would be kind enough to tell me when 266xx was built. It has a flat cylinder release. From searching around the web, it appears to be made in 1952-53.
Welcome! If your new Chiefs Special has the smaller trigger guard enclosure (more rounded than egg-shaped), it is an older version called a "Baby". One from 1952 or so would probably have a serrated, ramp front sight and would not be stamped MOD 36 on the frame upright under the barrel. The larger trigger guard started sometime in 1953.
Forum member Hondo44 is the local expert on these and should be along with more details. Enjoy!
another question, please. The round butt grip is shorter than the factory wood grips I have. I have a pair of standard stocks that are too long. A pair of banana grips fit but leave a gap.
The aftermarket grips that came with the gun are genuine plastic stag.
Was the 1950's model shorter grip frames? If so where can I find factory period stocks?
And there is no model designator, in the normal places, the front sight is serrated.
You'll have to look around for the correct stocks. The older guns had a slightly shorter grip. Some called them "Improved I-frame" guns. J-frame stocks won't fit. You might look around the various internet sites or place a WTB ad here in the forum classifieds.
model 36 new to me
Linear Mode
