I always liked the pre -68 diamond center stocks. I have a Model 36 without diamond. The gun was purchased new in December 1968. I friend of mine has an identical gun made in 1966 that has the diamond.

The finish on the 1966 stocks is darker and smoother. It looks like the finish was hand applied, maybe tung oil? The later stocks without the diamond are lighter colored, the wood does not look as smooth and the finish looks sprayed on.

It would be great to confirm what types of wood finishes were used through the years. I just picked up a very nice pre model 30 with original stocks. The finish on the stocks is like new and typical of S&W quality from the mid 50's.

I have several other post 1967 Smiths with original stocks numbered to the gun. While the older diamond stocks look better the later stocks are still walnut and more attractive than any synthetic material.