Info/Advice on a Model 36

[JoeQC]

Hello all,
Once again seeking help and advice from this great Forum!

I have a few questions about this nice little Chief's Special.

1. With a serial number of 205805, when was it produced?
2. Does the flat latch mark it as a bit more of a keeper?
3. Any speculation of it's value, and would sending it off to S&W for a refinish lessen it's value any?
4. I'd like to seek out a set of original grips for it. What would they of been?

As always, many thanks for sharing your esteemed wisdom!

JoeQC

 

[HAWKEYE10]

Your BOD is 1961. IMO the flat latch makes it more of
a keeper. I like older guns others don't. If I wanted a gun
with nicer bluing I would look for one in better condition.
Don

 

[flagman1776]

Those grips are not original to the gun, of course. "Shooters" of today & yesterday become the collectors of tomorrow. If the original grips are available they should be kept with the gun. Since it has been shot & probably carried, shooting it more will not reduce it's value. Refinishing will reduce it's future collector's value & likely cost 200 or more which you'll not get back...
Use her, enjoy her, prevent abuse or damage. She'll give you much joy & hold her value.
Just rub her down with good gun oil on a patch occasionally, barrel, chambers, exterior... just leave a light film.
Russ