Model 36 - ID

[iamde3]

I have a Smith & Wesson model 36 that I would like to learn a little about it. The serial # is 76J868. This is a 38 special, nickel plated, 5-shot Revolver, with Banana grips in 99 to 100% cond. This firearm was used by a Michigan state Trooper as a backup. Any and all info will be valued. This firearm is NOT for sale. Thank you, Bob

 

[BUFF]

The Model 36 was called the Chiefs Special when it was introduced in 1950. It has a pinned barrel. I don't see your serial number pattern or range in the books I have, so I can't even guess when your fiveshooter was shipped.

Perhaps you have inadvertently listed other numbers on the gun as the serial number. Please take a look at the numbers on the bottom flat surface of the grip frame. You may have to remove your stocks to see it.

 

[murphydog]

This one was made during the so-called "floating J" years of 1971-'72, when the factory used up to a 3-digit number in front of the J in the SN for who knows what reason. Enjoy!

 

[BUFF]

Thanks, Alan. I often forget about those.

 

[iamde3]

Thank you for responding to my questions. The # on the bottom of the grip frame is 76J868. There is a # on the left side of the grip frame, stamped in the non-polished part, of 45280, also with the letter N and G12 stamped on it. On the other side of the grip frame there is a letter Z in a circle and a letter C in a triangle. Everything is hidden by the grip. Thanks again for your response, your info is valued. This firearm was used by my friend as a back up revolver while He was a Michigan State Trooper. This firearm will remain in my collection and will be handed down, as should be, to my Daughter. My Daughter understands firearms and on a good day she MAY be able to out shoot the Old Man. Nah. Anyway, any and all info will be valued for there is a story to be told. Thank you, Bob

 

[murphydog]

Thank you for responding to my questions. The # on the bottom of the grip frame is 76J868. There is a # on the left side of the grip frame, stamped in the non-polished part, of 45280, also with the letter N and G12 stamped on it. On the other side of the grip frame there is a letter Z in a circle and a letter C in a triangle. Everything is hidden by the grip. Thanks again for your response, your info is valued. This firearm was used by my friend as a back up revolver while He was a Michigan State Trooper. This firearm will remain in my collection and will be handed down, as should be, to my Daughter. My Daughter understands firearms and on a good day she MAY be able to out shoot the Old Man. Nah. Anyway, any and all info will be valued for there is a story to be told. Thank you, Bob

Bob;

The letter N on the side of the grip frame indicates it came from the factory as a nickel gun. The 45280 is probably an assembly number to keep parts together at the factory, and the other stamps are inspector's or fitter's marks.

We all are going to pass our guns along to someone, someday - nice to see your daughter will get this one.

 

[iamde3]

Thank you Murphydog for your info. Though it doesn't matter, but have you got a value of this gun, it is near perfect. This firearm has the Banana grips and is highly polished Nickel. This firearm has had less than 100 rounds through it. Thanks again, Bob.

 

[murphydog]

You could expect $350 easy, perhaps $400 if you have the original box and contents.