My friend just picked up a Model 36 (no dash). I looked in the S&W Std. Catalog but can't find any reference to the mfg date.
S/N: 4J81xx
blue finish
2" barrel
38 cal. (5 rounds)

If anyone can give me the mfg. date, I really appreciate it.

On page 399, under J Serial prefix, at the bottom I found Serial #'s starting with 1J18601-xxxx listed as 1983.

My thought would be later than that? Although you said no dash.

Got any other info?

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Criminals don't register guns.

It says mod 36 and there is no dash number. I also seen that data on pg 399 which didn't have anything after the 1J.
We just wonder when it was made and what it is worth (in the Cleveland, Oh area)
It also has the pinned barrel and no diamond on the grips. The grips do have the serial number stamped inside.

For sure it's a J frame, and with non-diamond grips it's later than 1969. There are some irregularities in the Model 36 serial numbering scheme (referred to as the "floating J") which I have never understood, so I'll just say that it is likely it's from the early 1970s (1971-72). For pricing, the best approach is to look for prices of COMPLETED sales for J-frame Model 36s on Gunbroker.com. It's been several months since I looked, but it seemed that average condition Model 36s were topping out at around $350. One in outstanding condition or with the original box would obviously bring more in a private sale. No gun dealer or pawn shop would offer anything near $350.

I am assuming it has fixed sights - correct?

We're gaining on it. Pictures possible? Must not be a box? Product code would be helpful.

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Criminals don't register guns.

Unfortunately no box or papers. the owner got it from a detective in California years ago and brought it back here where it sat in his safe. He passed away a few years ago and his widow is selling off all his stuff.
That is all the info I have, but will try to get a pic if the owner still has it. It does look new, I'd say 99% by any standard.

Odd that if a detective actually carried it, it would be in anywhere near 99% condition. Maybe it was one he kept in his desk drawer. Assuming you are a potential purchaser, I'd say $350-400 would be a fair price in 99% condition. If she takes it to a gun store, she'll get raped (at least on the price).

I don't believe any of the owners actually carried it as it is in such new condition. My friend knows the lady that owns it and he already told her not to take it to a gun shop. He has first dibs on it otherwise I would have made an offer to the owner.