(Pre) Model 37 Serial Number

[Colter]

I'm looking to buy a pre M37 with a serial number C350XXX. The Standard Catalog says J frame serial numbers either had no prefix or a "J" prefix. The K frames were the ones with the "C" prefix.

So, why does this J have a C?

ML

 

[KEN L]

The question may be better answered if you can provide pics of what you're talking about. A clear closeup of the serial number, which is on the bottom of the grip frame, and the rest of the gun for that matter, would be most helpful in answering your question.

 

[Colter]

ML

 

[Malysh]

ML

ML, the revolver in your pictures shows a pre Mod 12 K frame Airweight, not a pre Mod 37 J frame Airweight. The K frame is much larger than the J frame. However, it is true that pre Mod 36 and Mod 37s do not have a C prefix serial number and that pre Mod K frames did.
I think these pictures are from a current Gunbroker auction in which the seller either mis-typed the data or just doesn't know the difference. I noticed this ad on Gunbroker a few weeks ago when I did a search using the word Airweight.
Another big clue is that the pictured gun has a 6 shot cylinder which denotes a K frame and a J frame has a 5 shot cylinder. There are other differences including the shape of the hammer, and that K frames used a leaf spring and J frames use a coiled spring. The spring I am referring to is contained in the grip frame so it's not visible in the pictures.

HTH

 

[rburg]

Great answer, and I agree with it. I can't get over how far this forum has evolved over the years.

 

[Colter]

ML, the revolver in your pictures shows a pre Mod 12 K frame Airweight, not a pre Mod 37 J frame Airweight. The K frame is much larger than the J frame. However, it is true that pre Mod 36 and Mod 37s do not have a C prefix serial number and that pre Mod K frames did.
I think these pictures are from a current Gunbroker auction in which the seller either mis-typed the data or just doesn't know the difference. I noticed this ad on Gunbroker a few weeks ago when I did a search using the word Airweight.
Another big clue is that the pictured gun has a 6 shot cylinder which denotes a K frame and a J frame has a 5 shot cylinder. There are other differences including the shape of the hammer, and that K frames used a leaf spring and J frames use a coiled spring. The spring I am referring to is contained in the grip frame so it's not visible in the pictures.

HTH

Thanks, you just saved me from buying a K thinking it was a J. I really couldn't tell from the pictures if it was a 5 or 6 shot cylinder.

 

[Malysh]

Thanks, you just saved me from buying a K thinking it was a J. I really couldn't tell from the pictures if it was a 5 or 6 shot cylinder.

The frame and especially the trigger guard is heavier and has a different shape for a K frame than a J frame. The only exception is very early pre Mod 36 trigger guards, which have the same profile as the K frames, just not as thick. It's moot, however, because they didn't make the Airweight J frames early enough to still have the rounded early pre J frame trigger guard on them.
The shape of the horn at the top of the grips is also different for K and J frame grips.

You are welcome! I am happy if I could help you out.

 

[Colter]

ML, the revolver in your pictures shows a pre Mod 12 K frame Airweight, not a pre Mod 37 J frame Airweight. The K frame is much larger than the J frame. However, it is true that pre Mod 36 and Mod 37s do not have a C prefix serial number and that pre Mod K frames did.
I think these pictures are from a current Gunbroker auction in which the seller either mis-typed the data or just doesn't know the difference. I noticed this ad on Gunbroker a few weeks ago when I did a search using the word Airweight.
Another big clue is that the pictured gun has a 6 shot cylinder which denotes a K frame and a J frame has a 5 shot cylinder. There are other differences including the shape of the hammer, and that K frames used a leaf spring and J frames use a coiled spring. The spring I am referring to is contained in the grip frame so it's not visible in the pictures.

HTH

I contacted the seller on GB and he corrected the description.

ML

 

[dark star]

DOB on M37

can any one give me an est. date of birth on an m37
SN 601xxx?
thanks for any help?

 

[Big Lou]

1967, 68....

 

[dark star]

thanks lou

 

[creekrat55]

m37

1967, 68....

Big Lou that was quick mine has number j781405 and has a 3inch barrel, thanks Bob