Need Help with M36-1 SN

[dlidster]

I have a cute little M36-1 square butt with a three-inch barrel. I'm trying to date it, but its serial number doesn't exactly comply with the format in the SCSW. Or, I'm not able to interpolate correctly.

The serial number is 18J9xx. This format is similar to the 1971-1972 range of J1-999J99, except mine has two numerals before the J and three after, while the SCSW example appears to be the opposite. Or, was it that the number sequence was 99J999 until one more was manufactured, shifting the next number to 100J00? (This would have maintained a format of five numerals and one character.)

I've always guessed it was '71-'72, but I'd sure welcome another opinion.

 

[linde]

. . . I've always guessed it was '71-'72, but I'd sure welcome another opinion.

You are correct on the date . . . likely 1971 . . . and you're also correct on the s/n progression from 99JXXX to 100JXX in that range of the "floating J" with 5 numerical digits.

The 36-1 is an excellent revolver and one of my favorites . . . enjoy,

Russ

 

[butchkent]

A pic would be nice. I have several and like the older M36s very much.

 

[dlidster]

A pic would be nice. I have several and like the older M36s very much.

I'll try to get some up this afternoon. This is a really nice little revolver that was pristine when I bought it several years ago.

The grips were perfect, but being post-1968, no diamonds. Well, I picked up a perfect pair of diamond grips (dated 1956) this weekend at a gun show. They really make it look they way I think it should.

I shoot this little gun a lot. With the Great 22 Rimfire Drought going on, it's been my plinker of choice. (I have several coffee cans of 38 cases and load cast bullets.) I use it as a BUG in IDPA matches. And I can't imagine a more reliable carry gun.

Edit: Here are the photos. Cute little puppy, isn't it?

 

[sandspur6]

Looks just like mine. J5900xx.

 

[TACC1]

Sure looks brand new! +1 on the stocks, too.
TACC1