New to me but been in the family Model 36-1 Chiefs Special

[Frank121]

I know...no pictures means it didn't happen (will post some later) but this weekend my Mom gave me my Dad's S&W that we called the "fishing gun" because he took it with us when he and I went fishing.

Included the 36-1 Chiefs Special Nickel-plated 3" barrel Serial # J615*** 38 Special with matching grips in the box and Mustang 3 grips installed, black S&W and tan Bianchi holsters, parts list/instruction sheet, holster brochure, safety card with authorized service centers, S&W ammunition brochure, warranty card, extra trigger (don't know why), oiled paper, bore brush, and the original blue box.

Finish on the cylinder, top of the pistol, and front of the trigger guard is dulled from years being carried in the rough holsters.

Definitely not a safe queen as this was a frequent carry but it is beautiful to me because of the memories of fishing with my Dad.

 

[les.b]

Good for you. I often wonder, when I'm gone... Will my boys and grandkids treasure the guns that I leave behind? I think so, as we had many pleasant memories of camp and hunting and shooting around the farm and at camp. I have lots of guns, but some are more special to myself and the boys. I gave each boy a pre 64 Winchester 30-30 model 94 on their 16th birthday. Just an example. They each have numerous guns, but will inherit many more when I pass.

In your case, it is almost a case of "less is more", you have this one special gun, and it has very specific memories. Cherish it, as it is priceless.

 

[pigbike]

That's the gun you need to keep forever.

 

[Frank121]

Here are a few quick pictures of the total package and the revolver

Here are a few quick pictures of the total package and the revolver

I know...no pictures means it didn't happen (will post some later) but this weekend my Mom gave me my Dad's S&W that we called the "fishing gun" because he took it with us when he and I went fishing.

Included the 36-1 Chiefs Special Nickel-plated 3" barrel Serial # J615*** 38 Special with matching grips in the box and Mustang 3 grips installed, black S&W and tan Bianchi holsters, parts list/instruction sheet, holster brochure, safety card with authorized service centers, S&W ammunition brochure, warranty card, extra trigger (don't know why), oiled paper, bore brush, and the original blue box.

Finish on the cylinder, top of the pistol, and front of the trigger guard is dulled from years being carried in the rough holsters.

Definitely not a safe queen as this was a frequent carry but it is beautiful to me because of the memories of fishing with my Dad.

 

[Texas Star]

Maybe you can wipe it down with metal polish or a jeweler's cloth and restore the bright nickel finish?

I don't buy nickeled guns, but had the blue and stainless versions of this one, and liked them very well indeed.

The three-inch barreled ones are certainly easier to shoot well than are the true snubs, and have higher velocity and a full-length extractor rod stroke.

 

[doowtag]

that's a gem. I'd like to have it even without the memories.

 

[Oyaji]

Frank121 the serial number you provided (J615***) makes your Model 36 a 1977 vintage.

 

[Frank121]

Thanks!

Frank121 the serial number you provided (J615***) makes your Model 36 a 1977 vintage.

Thank you very much, Oyaji, for the date on my Dad's 36-1. He had other "fishing" guns over the years before he got this pistol, but this was the one he carried by the time I was grown and out of the house. This was also his security gun when he traveled and at home.

He and I used to go catfishing and spend late nights out at the lake, which gave us wonderful time being together. I would give this gun and just about everything else in my life to have one more day with him.

 

[jframejoey]

Nice! Thats why I flip my lid when I see people who join and the first post is how much can I get for this gun my (insert relative here) left me?

 

[SilentKnight]

Sweet firearm and story. Treasure that one and enjoy every imperfection because it tells a story. That firearm has character.

 

[Frank121]

Thanks to everyone for the thoughtful replies.

 

[shouldazagged]

What a treasure--a fine handgun with wonderful sentimental value and great memories.

I know you'll take pleasure in passing it down the family line.