Still figuring out Model 36 nomenclature

[SnubbyJ54]

Same ol' story: I've inherited a Model 36 and I'd like to learn more about it!
2" 38 S&W SPL., 5 round cylinder.
On the frame, after swinging out the crane, it says "MOD-50". On the crane is marked "29652" (production no.?)
The serial number is like 931Jxx on the butt of the grip.
Square bottom with diamond etching. Trigger guard is oval rather than round.
Blued and in EXCELLENT condition!
There are 2 screws on the right side, 1 screw on the left that hold the release, no screw underneath.
Because it's not marked "Mod.36", it would be pre-1957.
I can't make sense of the serial number format with "J" in the middle.
What else should I look for? What can anyone say about it?
Thanks!!

 

[alaskavett]

You have a Model 50 not a 36. It is basically a 36 with adjustable sights on it. Nice. Kyle

 

[murphydog]

Alaskavett is correct, it should have a tall ramp front and adjustable rear sight. This is called a 3-screw frame; if you remove the stocks the third sideplate screw is visible. This was made in 1971-'72, the so-called "floating J" serial number years (up to three digits - J - three digits). It's a rare and very collectible gun, congratulations. We like photos .

 

[SnubbyJ54]

How do I post photos?

 

[murphydog]

Here is one way, after registering and logging in look for the Upload video and photos link:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/forum-office/78728-posting-photos-forum-new-format.html

 

[SnubbyJ54]

Thanks Alan. Those directions seem out of date but perhaps I got it working. Try this link:
http://i1208.photobucket.com/albums/cc379/SnubbyJ54/Rightside.jpg
and this one
http://i1208.photobucket.com/albums/cc379/SnubbyJ54/Leftside.jpg
Tell me if it doesn't work.

 

[Engine49guy]

Wow...Nice find!
A model 36 is called "The .38 Chiefs Special"
Your model 50 is called "The .38 Chiefs Special Target"
Of course the word "Target" reffering to the adjustable sights.

The book says 1973 there were 568 manufactured with a serial number range of 930J45 to 936J19

You are correct that crane mark "29652" is a production no.

 

[jpwhel]

Nice looking Mod 50, you don't see very many compared to the large number of Mod 36s out there. Happy shooting and welcome to the forum.

 

[TACC1]

First one I've seen in the wild, Thanks for posting, The pics
came out quite well. TACC1.

 

[tom turner]

Hi,

Nice looking little Roscoe! Wish I had one of those!!!

One more little tip. When you post a message, above the message box are icons and one of 'em is a little yellow square with a mountain and a sun image on it.

First, copy the image's location. As an example, I'll use one of your two photos . . .

http://i1208.photobucket.com/albums/cc379/SnubbyJ54/Rightside.jpg

Well, instead of posting this link in the message box, click on the icon I just mentioned (its the "photo insert" icon), and "paste" the photo link into the pop up screen that will appear.

Finally, hit "OK" on the pop-up box and this is what will magically appear!!!

BTW, welcome to the forum, and hope this helps!

Tom

And . . . here's your photo inserted using the photo icon button:

 

[murphydog]

Nice photos! Whomever owned it before you had great taste in guns, and now you do as well .

 

[tfltackdriver]

Man, that's wild looking. I never knew such a thing even existed. Great find!

 

[Engine49guy]

Seems the model 50 has the opposite case with the model 34 J frame where target sites were the norm.