38 S&W SPL

[ArmchairAstro]

Hi,

I was hoping someone would be kind enough to help me with ID and date of an old S&W revolver that I inherited.
Type: Hand Ejector
Serial: 5 digits, No letters - 85692
Caliber: 38 Special
Barrel: 1.875"
Sights: Fixed

I have attached a couple of photos in case that would be helpful.

Thank you,
Tim

 

[Bob L]

Is that the serial number of the bottom of the grip?

 

[ArmchairAstro]

Yes. It is also stamped on the rear of the cylinder.

 

[kscharlie]

Pretty sure that would be a Chiefs Special from around 1956. In 1958, they became the Model 36.

Welcome to the forum.

 

[ArmchairAstro]

Great! Thanks so much for your help!

 

[Art Doc]

Alloy frame would be a Model 37 starting in 1958.

 

[Narragansett]

Very nice. Hopefully, it has sentimental value for you. I suggest giving it a good cleaning, check the inside of the grip panels to see if the serial number matches, and then, if you can, enjoy shooting it with standard grade 38 spl ammunition. No hot loads or +P loadings

 

[ArmchairAstro]

Thanks Pete. Agreed that it needs a good cleanup. Serials all match. Checked them when I removed the hideous ivory grips and replaced with the originals.
Was my wife's grandfather's gun and and it's a keeper. He was the original owner. Also inherited his WW2 Remington Rand 1911 sidearm and a pre WW2 German Luger. Quite the collection and I'm pretty lucky to have been given these classics!

Appreciate the friendly feedback from everyone.

Regards,
Tim

 

[nbedford]

Looks a heap better than mine - alloy frame and cylinder. Around 1952.

 

[JH1951]

Welcome to the Forum from Pennsylvania!
You are fortunate to have come into the collection. Chiefs Specials are popular here, and so are 1911's, and Lugers. Show us some more pictures of them when you have an opportunity.

 

[ArmchairAstro]

Thanks JH.
Only because you asked
Here is a pic of the Luger and the 1911 with its original holster and field manual.
Enjoy!