Model 36 no-dash

[Gene L]

Trying to guess the date it was made. I'm assuming about 1972, has the diamond grips (which may not be correct) and the modern latch release. Serial number is 576J2. Floating J? It's been used and shows it. Thanks for your help.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard, Gene.

You know a great deal about your Chiefs Special. Kudos.

S&W issued the order to stop using the diamond grips in
October 1965, but I've seen them used -- with matching serial
numbers -- through June '68. That thumbpiece began, again,
in about 1966.

Two examples on my list that bracket your serial number are:

556J34, which shipped in December 1972

&

593J24, which shipped in February 1973

S&W didn't ship in serial number order so yours certainly could
have shipped before, after, or in between those two.

Truth be known, I actually prefer the ones with a bit of character,
and square butts are my favorites. Looks as though someone
bobbed off the coarse portion of the hammer, too.

Enjoy it.

 

[Gene L]

Yep, either bobbed or dropped. It was pretty sharp on the thumb when cocked, so I smoothed off (very slightly) the sharp edge and it's more comfortable now...not that I plan to shoot it SA. I tried to find a new hammer, but no luck in anything I'd want to put that much cash in. I ordered a Tyler T-grip, should be here in a month or two.