S&W Model 36 3" Project gun?

[Izzydog]

Several years back I purchased a 3" model 36 for my mother in law. It is in kinda rough shape in the looks dept., but functions well enough. about a year after that I ended up with another 3' 36 in pristine condition with box and papers. Of course when the MIL found out about it she demanded a trade. Since I kind like her daughter I agreed to her demands and the trade was made. So now I have a surplus 3' model 36. I'm considering sending it back to S&W to have it inspected and refinished. I also considered sending it to someone like Robar for a tougher finish, and carrying it as a BUG on duty. I have also considered selling it or trading it for something nicer. What are your thoughts, is it worth the time, money, and hassle?

 

[Izzydog]

The funny part is, I paid $325 for it, and traded a Weatherby Vanguard in 30-06 for the other. So the fellow that traded it to me was heard to remark about how he "took me to the cleaners".

 

[824tsv]

Hello,
I'm for the having it inspected to ensure reliability, but if you are planning on carrying it as a BUG I wouldn't bother with a refinish. It's going to spend 99% of it's time in a holster anyway.

 

[Continental Op]

BUG

Hello,
I'm for the having it inspected to ensure reliability, but if you are planning on carrying it as a BUG I wouldn't bother with a refinish. It's going to spend 99% of it's time in a holster anyway.

I agree, but I'd bob the hammer.

 

[GerSan69]

I've always been a fan of refinishing. I had several firearms Armoloyed back in the late 70's-early 80's and was pleased with how every one of them came out. I'd combine it with any improvements to the action that you might want, since once it's plated with any of the available hard finishes, you aren't going to be able to smooth anything out.
I'm not a fan of hammer bobbing, nor do I care for fiber-optic front sights. I don't think a "bob" helps in the least, and the FO digs into some holsters. However, I've always loved the red ramp front sight, even on a fixed-sight firearm. Adding a color insert makes the front sight on a refinished firearm jump out at you.
Finally, if you can find a J-frame adjustable sight, you might consider that as well. I had one done way back when those parts were plentiful, and combined with a small ramp sight and Armoloy, it came out looking like a mini Model 67.
Have fun!

 

[Izzydog]

I pulled the old dog out, and noticed that it has a wide target trigger and target hammer. I'm not sure how I feel about that I'm not sure that I should spend the money on it. If I can I may have my wife post a pick of it, that way you can profer an oppinion.