The Really Old Chief's Special Thread

[OldSarge21]

I picked up a really neat little Pre-36 Chief today. Flat latch, round butt, 5 shot. Unfortunately it has later stocks on it but it shoots really well. Bluing is starting to plum a little but it is a shooter. 5 screw. Not sure but it think it is a I frame although the J frame stocks fit ok. Ser #296XX.

I'm new to the forum and don't know how to post pics yet. Sorry. When I figure it out I will post.

Am kind of new to collecting S&W revolvers but currently have 5: 4" Nickel 29-3, 6.5" SS 629-6, 6" Blue 586-1, 4" SS 64-5, Pre-36 Chief Special.

 

[Hondo44]

I picked up a really neat little Pre-36 Chief today. Flat latch, round butt, 5 shot. Unfortunately it has later stocks on it but it shoots really well. Bluing is starting to plum a little but it is a shooter. 5 screw. Not sure but it think it is a I frame although the J frame stocks fit ok. Ser #296XX.

I'm new to the forum and don't know how to post pics yet. Sorry. When I figure it out I will post.

Am kind of new to collecting S&W revolvers but currently have 5: 4" Nickel 29-3, 6.5" SS 629-6, 6" Blue 586-1, 4" SS 64-5, Pre-36 Chief Special.

Welcome to the forum OldSarge.

If your gun chambers 38 S&W Special cartridges, it can't be an I frame. See post #437 above.

 

[les.b]

OldSarge21:

Welcome to the forum, and the wonderful world of Smith and Wessons!! I sure hope that you enjoy this forum as much as we do!!! I'm sure that you will.

We'll be watching for your photos...

Best Regards, Les

 

[OldSarge21]

Hondo, thanks a bunch. I just finished reading through this whole string. I wish I had read it before I posted and saved myself some embarrassment. I now fully understand the the I frame vs baby J etc. Mine is a baby J, .38 S&W SPL on right of barrel, early rounded flat latch, serrated ramp. This forum is a great place to hang out and learn. Thanks again.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Welcome aboard from Wyoming, OldSarge21.

That's a dandy looking old Chiefs Special. You've got a great start to your collection. Hang around here and it'll get better by the day.

How are things on the "UP"?

Cheers,

Bob

 

[Norris Gibson]

I had a 2 inch RB Chief from 1954 with "Mass. State Police" factory engraved (in script) on the backstrap. Like a fool, I sold it off.

Always seems like a good idea at the time and then you kick yourself for ever. Been there and done that more than once. Seems a man would learn, but no.

 

[policerevolvercollector]

Addition to the collection!!

Let's bring this thread BTT with a Pennsylvania Railroad Police issued pre 36 (#70354). Circa 1955??

Best,
Charles

 

[Hondo44]

Cool!

Model 0f 1953 NEW J frame (Pre 36).

Yes, most likely Nov, Dec 1955. 2nd style flat latch. 4 screw model.

A little Flitz or Mothers mag wheel polish will do wonders for a the minute scratches in the nickel and not affect value or originality.

 

[policerevolvercollector]

Cool!

Model 0f 1953 NEW J frame (Pre 36).

Yes, most likely Nov, Dec 1955. 2nd style flat latch. 4 screw model.

A little Flitz or Mothers mag wheel polish will do wonders for a the minute scratches in the nickel and not affect value or originality.

Jim,
I was hoping you'd drop by and share your expertise!! What is an approximate value?

Thanks!
Charles

 

[Hondo44]

Hard to value one like this.

The bobbed hammer doesn't help the value unless it could be confirmed as a standard procedure for all the RR guns.

No original grips is a downside, but nice pearls have their own value of ~ $200.

It has a niche collectability as a RR gun.

A guess estimate would be $400-$500 to the right buyer. Best possible sale price would be in a GunBroker auction once it's polished up.

 

[FifthWheel]

I posted my new acquisition in another thread but wanted to add it here. Got it to the range yesterday and shot a box of 158gr copper plated round nose and it shot beautifully.
SN 72330, the highest known to have the old style hammer, thank you Hondo44.
It's a Model of 1953 New J Frame, 4 screw, in good shooter condition.
All numbers match including the grips

 

[Hondo44]

Hi Mike,

That is just a jewel. About as nice as it can be and still dare shoot it.

Merry Christmas!

 

[CITYREPO61]

Old pic of one of my Favorites

My 3" Model 36!