Strange j frame

[Leadchop54]

Hi everyone, I recently came across a box various revolver parts. In the box was a half complete j frame. It looks to be new/unused. The frame and cylinder are both aluminum/alloy. The frame is marked 12 5. Frame what I understand, the model 12 was a alloy K frame? This is most definitely a J frame. Any info would be appreciated!

 

[s&wchad]

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[Leadchop54]

The PB images are useless.
Load you photos directly to the forum.

Instructions: Video Tutorials on Posting Pictures

Fixed! Thanks for the help!

 

[jimmyj]

Strange Model 36

In the 1950s there was a aluminum alloy "K" frame 2" RB made for SAC command Bomber Crews and possible also a "J" Frame. A letter with the serial number to S&W might get needed information. However this also might be a prototype of a Model 37

 

[cgt4570]

From that timeframe, any stamps in the yoke are meaningless assembly numbers. The 12 5 you see was stamped by fitters and only meant something to them. I agree you have a very early 'pre Model 37' with alloy cylinder that was likely meant for the USAF.

 

[Hondo44]

The serial # is within a bunch shipped Feb 20, 1953. It's a "Model of 1953 .38 Chiefs Spl Airweight", New J frame, Pre model 37. The 12 5 is not a model #, it has no dash between the 12 and the 5.

Like you posted, it doesn't appear to have ever been completed or sold. Maybe a rejected frame or an employee lunchbox gun. We'll never know.

Did it come with enough parts to assemble and complete it?

 

[ACORN]

Cool! What a nice find. Make a nice project for the coming winter months.

 

[Leadchop54]

The serial # is within a bunch shipped Feb 20, 1953. It's a "Model of 1953 .38 Chiefs Spl Airweight", New J frame, Pre model 37. The 12 5 is not a model #, it has no dash between the 12 and the 5.

Like you posted, it doesn't appear to have ever been completed or sold. Maybe a rejected frame or an employee lunchbox gun. We'll never know.

Did it come with enough parts to assemble and complete it?

Thanks for the info!! Unfortunately it’s missing all its internals and I’m pretty sure the barrel that’s on it doesn’t belong with it. I may try to source some parts and put it back together.

 

[flagman1776]

The barrel looks fine to me but the aluminum cylinder probably shouldn't be fired. Others can tell you more but I believe S&W replaced the alloy cylinders with steel.

 

[opoefc]

It has no connection to any of the USAF shipped alloy J frames. Wrong serial number, wrong barrel markings, etc. Ed.

 

[Green Frog]

There are tons of Chiefs Special parts kits out there. If it were mine, I buy such a kit, build it up with two cylinders (the steel one from the parts kit to shoot and the original aluminum to display and impress the tourist.) Of course as nice as it is, I doubt I'd carry and shoot it enough to give it much wear and tear! Regardless, it's a great find!

Froggie

 

[Hondo44]

Thanks for the info!! Unfortunately it’s missing all its internals and I’m pretty sure the barrel that’s on it doesn’t belong with it. I may try to source some parts and put it back together.

Yep, non-matching serial # on the barrel.

Is there a matching assembly #125 inside he side plate and on the yoke?

Parts kits for Chiefs are fairly common on Ebay and Gunbroker. That would be the least expansive way to get all the little parts you need. Common parts kits like you need go for as low as $39. Just search for "parts kit".

Any .38 Chiefs Spl Pre Mod/Model 36/37 parts kits from 1953 thru 1996 will have the parts that work.

Kits from 1953 to 1966 will have the right style cyl release thumb piece and diamond grips.

A kit from after 1986 will get you the newer .312" wide smooth combat trigger.

Actually since you have the caliber specific barrel and cyl, parts kits for J frame .32 Models 30-1 and 31-1 and the .38 S&W Models 32-1 and 33-1 will also work!

For a lot more money you can get the entire gun with frame cut apart but all parts still assembled that you know are all factory fitted together and just swap into your frame. And they won't cost anymore than sourcing all the parts separately. There's even a Model 37s available now with the proper Airweight stamped barrel for your frame, and a steel cyl, which is not an auction site.
Have fun,

 

[nbedford]

295XX is the s# of my S&W J frame Airweight - aluminum cylinder and frame. I shoot wad cutters in it now and then, but that's it. I don't particularly worry about wear. I know, wrong grips, but better than the K frame plastic stag grips that came on it. BTW if getting parts for it - mine has the flat latch.