Help on a model 36

[starhomesjosh]

Guys new to the group but need some help.. I got a NIB unfired SW model 36 revolver from an estate sale. The story told was it was a retirement gift from the FBI. I cant find any information on the gun's serial number nor the flag that is imprinted on the frame.

the serial number starts with BAT076*

anyone have any idea the year/purpose?

Thank you for your help.

 

[murphydog]

Welcome! The serial letter prefix (BAT) puts its production sometime in early-mid 1988. As far as the story about its previous life, short of obtaining information about it from the previous owner's family, the only way to potentially find any information is a factory letter:

Firearm History Request - Smith & Wesson

A good rule about this situation is - "buy the gun, not the story". It helps greatly in not overpaying for stuff . Hope this is helpful.

 

[DWalt]

The BAT is likely 1988. Don't expect too much from the factory letter, as it is unlikely to tell you anything significant about the alleged FBI connection. You might post a picture showing the flag imprinted on the frame you mentioned. Someone may be able to recognize it.

 

[gman51]

I can't answer your question but I can tell you that S&W model 36 is one sweet little gun. IMO They have excellent trigger action and recoil for being a small J frame is really nice also.

 

[starhomesjosh]

ok, thank you all so far