Chief Special Target Research & Survivors List Redux

[two-bit cowboy]

I don't know how the 3" one got in the mix here.

The thread concerns all Chiefs Special Target models.

 

[jcelect]

Bob and Joe, my impression of Fernando's Chiefs Special Target was it was refinished outside the factory. It has no 'N' stamps anywhere and the rear sight leaf is plated. I felt the latter was a big tell but I couldn't find any pictures of a real nickel CST to compare it to. Nevertheless, it is a rare bird and also an heirloom.

I missed that Guy, thanks! I'm not partial to nickel guns so I have none in my collection of J frames. There were very few Ni CSTs and of those I have never seen a pic of one.
jcelect

 

[BC38]

Hi all,
I have owned a .38 cal Model 50 Chief's Special Target, which I originally thought was a Model 36, for over 45 years. I carried this gun while on the job as a Special Agent in the FBI, until I purchased a Model 60 around 1979. The gun then went to my late father, but I have it back again. I don't have the original grips, but I've included photos of the grips I do have, with the Bureau seal, which I personally placed on the grips. If my memory serves me correct, either my dad or me may have purchased this weapon from another Special Agent in the San Juan Office where I was stationed at the time. I'll include photos. The serial number is 55104 and I have been told by Wiregrassguy that it is among the first 100 manufactured in 1955. Can we include this in some database. I understand jcelect started a database of surviving CSTs. THanks, Fernando

FWIW, if that one were part of my collection, I'd roll the dice and spend the $100 to have it lettered.
Who knows what Mr. Jinks might have to say about it? It could be a total bust, or it could be a major BONUS. Worst case, you'll have an official S&W Historian letter for it.
Seems to me like it would be worth the gamble. I mean, what is $100 really worth these days?
Just one person's opinion, and as always, YMMV.

 

[merl67]

Hi all,
I have owned a .38 cal Model 50 Chief's Special Target, which I originally thought was a Model 36, for over 45 years. I carried this gun while on the job as a Special Agent in the FBI, until I purchased a Model 60 around 1979. The gun then went to my late father, but I have it back again. I don't have the original grips, but I've included photos of the grips I do have, with the Bureau seal, which I personally placed on the grips. If my memory serves me correct, either my dad or me may have purchased this weapon from another Special Agent in the San Juan Office where I was stationed at the time. I'll include photos. The serial number is 55104 and I have been told by Wiregrassguy that it is among the first 100 manufactured in 1955. Can we include this in some database. I understand jcelect started a database of surviving CSTs. THanks, Fernando

WOW I have sn 55102 blued finish...