History desired on Model 36

[DaveDanger]

Hello all, new member to this forum, but participator in quite a few others from computers & automotive to motorcycles.

I recently purchased a small collection of revolvers and one of the group is a S & W Model 36 (behind the yoke). The brief research I've done indicates it's a "Chief's Special" .38 Special DA, serial numbered 71J522. I understand that the serial number probably only indicates the factory ship date as opposed to the manufacture date, but I'd like to at least get close.
It's in excellent condition, blued, exposed hammer, wood grips, 1.75" barrel, fixed fwd ramp sight, square grooved notch rear sight, left side hand ejected cylinder.

I'd appreciate hearing from anyone that has the appropriate publication that provides this information.

I've also looked on several weapons websites trying to determine a relative value based on its condition and age, but would be interested in anyone's input on any specific websites that really help pin that down.

Thanks,

DD.

 

[Kensterfly]

Pictures are your friends. And ours.

Post some.

As for value. Probably about what you paid for it, whatever that was.
A really nice Blue 36 runs between $400 and $500 around here.
On Gunbroker dot com there are about 60 Model 36s listed and the prices have quite a spread.
There is a site called gunvaluesboard dot com that is great for getting information like you are seeking. Post as many pics as possible, plus your serial number. (You can xxx out the last two or three digits.) You can learn a lot there.

 

[linde]

I recently purchased a S & W Model 36 "Chief's Special" .38 Special DA, serial numbered 71J522. I understand that the serial number probably only indicates the factory ship date as opposed to the manufacture date, but I'd like to at least get close.

I would think 1972 . . . but it could be late 1971.

Russ

 

[CowboyKen]

I bought one a little older then yours a month ago in good shooter condition for $300.00.

Nice guns. I have four now.

Ken

 

[Kensterfly]

Nice score, Ken. I'd love to find a decent one for $300 for my carry. I don't mind a few scratches or faded Blue. If it's not too pretty I wouldn't feel bad about bobbing the hammer.

 

[CowboyKen]

I would do that to this one but it has a hard chromed hammer and trigger that really look nice.

Ken

 

[mbliss57]

I bought a 3" last year with very similar s/n from 1971. LNIB with tool and papers for $500. I thought I got the better of that deal. Generally a shooter with out a box will be $300 (Lucky) to $450. $500 would be the upper end and should probably have papers, box and tool to command that price. Condition is almost everything.. a little luck is the rest.
Luck: "where preparation meets opportunity":
I lucked into a 1962 vintage model 36 chief special last year because a guy took it to a pawn shop to sell and he didn't like their price of $125. (I overhead the deal) I waited outside for him. I asked to see it and asked what he had to have. $200 was his price. I couldn't get the wallet out fast enough and keep a straight face. These low price deals do happen. But usually you pay the correct value.

 

[Kensterfly]

I would do that to this one but it has a hard chromed hammer and trigger that really look nice.

Ken

So it has been refinish. I don't think the trigger/hammer ever came from the factory chromed (Nickeled?) But yes, they look pretty cool.

 

[Terminatorret]

Superb pocket gun.
I have bought 2...1st $400 which included a vintage Lawrence holster and 50 rounds. (Just gave it to my daughter-in-law).
2nd for $200 with a little surface rust and a chipped hammer (which I ground down to a "bobbed" configuration)...MUCH better pocket gun. It is now my full-time carry because I don't even know it's there (in my front Wranglers pocket).
"They don't make 'em like they used to"...could be true. I'm a Ruger .357 man, but I absolutely love my Model 36's.
Don't sell it anytime soon. I think you may grow to love it.