Model 29-2 and Model 36 No-Dash Dates

[mblake101]

Hi - Brand new to forum. Super nice here!

I decided to look at my old firearms and thinking of sending them Smith for refinishing. I am hoping you all could provide birthdates of these two pistols based upon serial number. The 29-2 4" nickel is N725XX and the 36 is 462XX.

I purchased the 29 new in around 1970. I can't recall if I bought the 36 new or got it is a trade.

Thanks guys!

 

[MetalMan]

Looks like yours is an early one....pre-1955

I'm sure someone will chime in a more precise DOB.

For models 36, 37, 38, 49, 50 and pre model number versions.

1950 = start at 1
1952 = 7369 - 21342
1953 = 28916
1955 = 55050 - 75000
1957 = 117770 - 125000
1962 = starts at 295000
1969 = ends at 786544

Photos would be great also!

 

[gmborkovic]

Why send out for re-fin? Are they that bad.

 

[heater1]

First of all, welcome to the forum from sunny Southern California.

Based on the serial # lists in the 4th edition of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson your model 29 was likely manufactured sometime in 1970-71. The Model 36 (which based on the serial number is actually a Chief Special) would be dated to 1954. The only accurate way to date either gun is to get a Historical Society Letter from Roy Jinks which will give the date the gun was shipped.

Others with guns that they have date information on that serial number close to yours will likely be along to give you more accurate (hopefully) date information.

Anyway you have two iconic Smiths which hopefully you are enjoying.

 

[Doc44]

Your 29-2 most likely dates to early 1973.

Bill

 

[mblake101]

Refinish 29

After looking at them, I think the 36 in fine. The 29 was in storage in Houston in for a few years and ended up getting pitted rust on the barrel an cylinder. I hate that happpened to it, so I'm thinking on having Smith fix those areas and re-nickel it. It is such a nice weapon, it deserves it. Thanks for your insight.

Why send out for re-fin? Are they that bad.

 

[mh51]

From what I understand, S&W no longer does nickel refinishing.
Too many EPA regulations about the chemicals and disposal.
Mike

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from Wyoming.

Your Chiefs Special seems to be immediately after the change from the first style to the Model of 1953, which began shipping in the summer of 1954. Can you provide whole photos of the left and right side of the revolver along with the whole serial number?

Cheers