Hi folks.

Yesterday I traded for an older S&W Model 36 (no dash) 2 inch .38 special revolver.

It started out in life as a blued gun, however the bluing was removed at some point and now it is a dull stainless color.

This model 36 has a serial number of AYN4677 on the bottom of the grip, has the number 3493 stamped on the right grip frame, and 39428 on the left grip frame. Also inside the left grip frame are the numbers 22, and on the inside of the right grip frame there is an I stamped inside a circle, and a V stamped inside a triangle.

This little revolver has seen hard use, it's very dirty and has minor pitting on the frame, but it's not that bad. My intention is to clean it up, have it re-blued, and bring it back to life. It does have the factory slim grips with logo, they are in good condition.

I am curious about the manufacture date. I have the second edition of S&W Standard Catalog, but the serial number is AYN4677 is not listed.

Thanks in advance for help with the manufacture date.

My best guess is late 1987. (Third Edition)

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

Thanks armorer951, I appreciate the info.

In cleaning the Model 36 today, I discovered that the back half of the thumb portion of the hammer has broken off and left a jagged edge.

Are replacement hammers available from S&W for a gun this old? If not, I'll dremmel the jagged part to smooth it off.

The finish on this gun is worse than anticipated. Cerekote has a new color out now that is shiny black, I may end up going that route on the entire gun.

If it were me, I'd just even it up and smooth out the broken hammer.

Sometimes people deliberately "bob" the hammer to keep it from catching on clothing when drawn.

If you do a nice even job of smoothing off the sharp edges you can say you bobbed the hammer and everyone will think you are a smart carry gun expert -- rather than a guy with a broken gun.