So it turns out that my 1957 model 36 had a bent ejector rod. I heard it could be straightened out but a replacement from the factory was only $8. The gunsmith told me it would be A LOT cheaper and just better overall. I am keeping this gun for the long haul and intend to shoot and carry it. But I am keeping the original rod just in case the new one doesn't look good. Please tell me I made the right choice.

That's what I would do, so of course it's the right choice.
Jim

A whole 8 bucks to make your vintage Model 36 "good as new"? Yep, that would be my course of action... Course if you want to double your investment I will pay shipping Kyle

Those very short rods are not easy to straighten...

Now I am feeling 100% about it. Thanks guys!

It's not like the ejector rod has a serial number on it. Good idea to change it out.

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Tom
NRA Pistol Inst

I guess I was on the fence because it was my grandfathers and he carried it for much of his life so I wanted to keep it as natural as possible. AND Larry Potterfield from Midway USA has a video which shows him fixing a bent ejector rod but honestly that guy makes EVERYTHING look so easy. Just hope the new one doesn't stand out like a soar thumb.

If your gun was made in 1957 the extractor rod has right-handed threads. Since the change to left-handed threads was back in 1964 it is extremely likely that any part you got from the factory will come with left-handed threads. It isn't as simple as it seems!

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Gunsmithing since 1961

Can you please elaborate? I thought a threaded rod was just simply that. So your saying it will look different? What about functionality?

Early guns have right handed threads, later guns have left handed threads.

It will not look different at all. It just won't screw into the crane as it is threaded for a right handed ejector rod.
I see a couple of options.
1. Straighten the one you have
2 Look for an old beater Chief Special prior to 1964 and use parts from it. I would put that put on the forum in the "Want to Buy section."
3. Have one custom made.
4. Check with Numrich to see if they have that part.

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John 1:17
NRA Life Benefactor

Wow that really sucks. The gunsmith ordered the part yesterday so I guess I should give him a call and let him know what you so kindly brought to my attention. I wonder if the S&W factory has any of the old ones? But probably not I'm assuming. Thanks again

S&W does not have any right hand threaded ejector rods left to my knowledge. Try Jack First gun parts or post a Want to Buy for one in the appropriate section.

You might also try David Chicoine for a rod.
index

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Dick

Sounds like you made the right choice. You no
longer will have any doubt as to whether or not
the rod is causing a problem. Maybe a cood 'smith
could try to straighten the old shaft, just so you
could include it if selling. Happy Shooting!
TACC1