I've just joined this forum and this is my first post, so thanks in advance for your insight/information.

I recently picked up a Model 36. I wasn't looking for one, but the opportunity came along and I've always kinda liked them. Everything seems good on it except the grips, which are in a lot worse shape than the gun. The previous owner supposedly has another set that he will be giving me soon, so we'll see if those are any better. I also noticed what looks like a bit of pitting on the right side of the trigger, but I'm not sure exactly what it is. There is no other visible corrosion or obvious flaws. One thing that I noticed is that the locking bolt pin sticks out of the front, as if it's too long. It operates properly, but it bothers me. Are there any simple fixes for this, or should I try to replace it? If so, what size punch should I use on the pin? My smallest is a 1/16" and it seems a bit too big. I'm attaching a few pics for your review. Thanks!

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Beautiful.

I'm not sure I see what the problem is. Although I wouldn't know how to tell you how to fix it, even if there was one. Are you talking about the pin on the underlug that helps hold the ejector rod under the barrel?

I was also hoping someone could confirm the date of manufacture for me. I have the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, and if I'm reading it right, the serial #7J15XX puts it the 1971-72 range?

Yeah- it protrudes even when it's closed. I have a Model 60, and I haven't seen it on any other revolver.

I own several J frames for well over 50 years and nothing looks out of place, even the grips look to be in pretty good shape. I’d try it with standard pressure rounds at the range but you’ve landed on a great carry gun.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Doesn't look like a problem to me, I must be missing something. Very nice gun.
Walt

The pin that holds it is .050 like most S&W pins. But what your seeing is normal. I guess you could sand and polish a bit off. But, no more than flush when cylinder is open. The end piece helps keep it aligned and running true in its spot. It sets in a stepped hole of course and if the small end was to short it could move far enough forward to goi itnto the big portion and hang up. There is some variation in ejector rod lengtths which means either the rod has to be adjusted or the slot in the lug itself so the ejector rod both latches and unlatches properly. This causes some variation in the stick out of the forward end of lug.

I would just leave it alone. Hurts nothing and most people wouldn't even notice it.

Looks to me that all you need is some comfortable grips for shooting, some ammo, and head out to the Range.

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Two Handguns every day

I would say that as long as it is working like it should don't mess with it.

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1st smiles,lies.Last,gunfire.

The locking bolt pin on my 1968 vintage Model 36 looks exactly like your example.

The bolt pins in my later Model 36 and Model 60’s - all mid-to-late 1980’s vintage - are flush or slightly recessed within the housing.

Sounds like yours is absolutely normal for the vintage of your example.

You’re in possession of a fine Model 36.

Now we’ll wait to hear back from you with a range report.

I’d be tickled to own that gun just like it is. The little bit of wear I see on the grips just adds character

OP,
Looks to me that you have a gorgeous example of the Model 36. Even the grips appear original to me.

Below pics are my Model 36 no dash, (1965) and mine was purchased ANIB, with box, docs, vapor paper so virtually classic definition of ANIB, and I don't see anything at all on yours that would need "fixing" or any fiddling at all.....except like others posted.....load her up, get to the range and show us she can still put-em-where-they belong, (as long as you do your part)

Congrats on finding that beauty and welcome to the Forum from Virginia

Attached Images

	M 36-A.jpg (90.7 KB, 27 views)
	M 36-B.jpg (91.6 KB, 30 views)
	M 36-E.jpg (103.2 KB, 24 views)
	M 36-F.jpg (83.6 KB, 27 views)
	M 36-G.jpg (59.4 KB, 30 views)

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Charlie B
SWCA#3083, SWHF#570

Welcome aboard from Wyoming.

You have a terrific Chiefs Special. I agree with the others; don't mess with the pin.

Take the grips off and look inside the right one for a serial number. If the grips are original to the gun the serial number should match the one on the butt, minus the "J."

S&W didn't track manufacturing dates. The company historian has the date the revolvers shipped from the factory. Although the SCSW gives the range for your serial number as '71/'72, some of the early "floating J" serial numbers with a single digit preceding the J shipped in late '70. Yours could be either late '70 or early '71.

The way to know for sure would be to request a letter to confirm the shipping date (form attached below).

Enjoy your Chiefs!

Attached Files

SW Letter_request_form-1.pdf (324.5 KB, 10 views)

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Wrangler of stray Chiefs
Bob

Wow, thanks a lot for all the responses! I will take your advice and leave it alone, except for the grips. I've taken them off and didn't notice a serial number. I am hoping that the grips that the previous owner is giving me are the originals. Either way I'm happy with it. Thanks again!

Put a drop or two of gun oil on it and work it in, just to make sure it isn't getting hung up for lack of lubrication. Wipe off excess oil.
If you're getting proper lockup, I wouldn't worry it.
Worry less and shoot more.

Nice gun, congrats.

I was gonna say I think I've noticed that pin sticking out on other guns. But I looked at the new model on line and didn't see it. But I see it on the other posters above.

I really like your 36. I'm jealous.

...here's an old Centennial with similar locking bolt protrusion at the front...

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A Country Boy Can Survive