Identify year of a Model 37

[jlk786]

Guys,

I have a model 37 that I inherited from my grandfather and I'd like to know how old it is. I love to take it to the range but I really want to know how old it is. The serial number is 28J1XX. It has two visible screws. Its identified on the barrel as an Airweight 38 SPL. CTG. Its my favorite gun and I'd really like to know more about it.

 

[magmag]

J-frame Serial/year Listing in a Single Thread?

 

[JP@AK]

Probably shipped in 1971.

 

[murphydog]

Welcome! Good information above. It is a 3-screw frame, one is probably hidden under the right stock panel:

To IDENTIFY your Gun >

Its full name is a .38 Chiefs Special Airweight, made with 2 and 3" barrels. Probably best to use standard pressure .38 Special in it. 130 gr FMJ, 158 gr lead and 148 gr wadcutters would all be good as range ammo. Hope this is helpful.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from ol' Wyo.

Based on the others in my database I'd put it in the last quarter of '71.

S&W began shipping J-framed revolvers with the "floating J" serial number range in mid-1970, and shipped them through the mid-'70s, with the majority (65% or so) going out in '71 and '72.

The floating J range overlapped on both ends with the previous and subsequent serial numbering systems.

Is your granddad's Model 37 a blue 2" with a round butt?

Enjoy