Serial numbers on 1962 Model 36

[Vettepartz]

I have an early 1962 model 36. An S&W letter says it was shipped to the NYPD in that year. The serial number is stamped on the butt of the frame and on the inside of the RH stock, but no where else. Shouldn't it be stamped on the barrel and the cylinder? The frame has no stamps on it going back to S&W for repair, although I believe it did go back. Should there be other places with the serial stamped?

 

[murphydog]

No, as of about early 1958 and the end of "soft fitting" major assemblies (barrels and cylinders) were no longer numbered to the gun.

 

[SGT ROCK 11B]

What I would add is large Police Departments like NYPD have S&W trained armorers. You have a problem you can have repaired by the Range Staff.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

I would be willing to bet the serial number is also stamped on the
back of the extractor star. That serial number hung on for at least
two decades after Smith & Wesson eliminated soft fitting.

Forum member and NYPD Historian R.M. Vivas likely has the
records showing to whom the NYPD Equipment Bureau sold your
Chiefs Special.

 

[Vettepartz]

Yes, Mr. Vivas was kind enough to give me the name of the policeman who bought the gun. He also provided the officer's shield number, which is also on the handgun now. Big thanks to Mr. Vivas.

 

[cndrdk]

Yes, Mr. Vivas was kind enough to give me the name of the policeman who bought the gun. He also provided the officer's shield number, which is also on the handgun now. Big thanks to Mr. Vivas.

Where was the officer's shield number stamped on the revolver?

 

[Vettepartz]

cndrdk - I never said the shield number was STAMPED on the frame. It was engraved on the butt next to the serial number. Possibly because it was faulty when first received and sent back to the factory. This would make it available for sale at a later date than others in the same shipment.