Help Dating & Deciding M36 vs M60

[tippit]

I'm pretty new here but due to everyone's help & kindness I've learned a lot already. My original reason for joining was to figure out a M 27-2 5" that I picked up as a back up to my longbow while hog hunting. Since then I've added a 681 4" & a 66-2 2.5". I've been progressively down sizing because my bow is my primary weapon and I just carry a fanny pack when hunting.

Now I'm considering a J frame 38 special for my back up as it's so small & light for my fanny pack. My local dealer has two snub nose 38 specials:

M 36 no dash Ser #7J22** mint not even a line on the cylinder for $500 talked down to $450

M 60 no dash Ser #R3300** scratched up but doesn't appear to be shot much for $300 talked down to $275. It dose have a S stamp below M60 stamp. Not sure what that means?

Couple Questions:

1) Can you date both revolvers for me?

2) Can either of these withstand a higher power 38 special round?

3) If so what would be the best round for a coup de gras as I will only be using the revolver while blood trailing an already arrowed hog?

I know ya'll say I'm nuts but I'm looking at 38 specials Not my 357 mags. I've been a traditional bowhunter for over 30 years killing black bears, deer, caribou, coyotes, javelina, and small game. I never thought I would be considering having the need for a handgun until I shot a 250# hog. That's the only animal that has caught my attention for extra security. I only take 3 arrows when hunting as I've decided if I can't get the job done with that number than I don't deserve to be in the field that day.

Couple of pictures to show that I take my longbow seriously. Thanks for any help...tippit

330# Black Bear shot at 5 yards!

 

[blackpowder]

1. Someone here will surely give you the dates these guns left the factory.

2. Both are good for 38spl+P and the M60 will shoot .357mags as well. Will you need .357mags for your purpose? Probably a 38spl is sufficient.

3. Any good FMJ bullet

good luck hunting and thnks for the pics.

 

[tippit]

This M60 no dash Ser #R3300** is just a .38 special. I don't believe it is a .357 mag.

 

[Ltlbear]

I would go for the M60. Can't beat Stainless for a field gun.
Both will handle +P ammo. I believe you are correct, the M60 would be 38 only.
Cant tell you the year. Don't have a book.
The "S" stamp I believe means stainless.

My decision would be based on how tight either of them were. There is a sticky on here somewhere on how to look over a used revolver. And, Stainless will polish if you want it to look "pretty" again.

Oh, and nice hunting. Bear at 5 yards is too close for me even with more power than a longbow.