What Did I Buy? Mod 36 or Chief's Special?

[Redcoat3340]

So I was cruising 'round Gunbroken and came across this J frame. It was going for what I thought was a good deal even if it is only a shooter -- $250ish -- so I bid and won.

Model 36 (although they didn't show inside of crane), definately has seen some use, maybe more than some, seller (Kings) says lockup is good as is bore, rubber grips but I know I have some wood ones around if I want, and I only have one J -- a 642 Performance Center -- so why not take a chance?

What I haven't quite figured out is: are all model 36s Chief's Specials? I have a 9 and 45 Chief's Special and am a bit familiar with those; but haven't really spent any time researching the revolver Chiefs. I know the basic story but that's about it.

I've purchased a couple of guns from Kings before and the quality was always at least as good as their descriptions, plus the service is good. And $256 seems okay for what it is.

Anyone want to comment/instruct on what I got here? Good or bad? Would be appreciated.

 

[robertrwalsh]

That price is excellent unless the gun is complete junk.

The Chief's Special became the Model 36 in about 1957 when S&W went to model numbers from model names. Same gun. There have been minor tweaks and engineering changes as with any gun that has been around over 60 years.

 

[tom2]

I thought the early Chiefs had that flat rectangular shaped cylinder release on them so I would guess model 36 "Chief's Special". That wear on the finish looks weird to me. Looks like flaked off instead of worn like most blue. Might be perspiration or humid area. As long as it is not pitted up it might be worth a refinish if it is otherwise tight and good. That price seems low for a Gunbroker gun. Everything on there is at least twice what I would like to pay.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

It's Chiefs Special (no apostrophe between the f and s).

When S&W ordered model numbers (June 12, 1957) the company continued to use the names along with model numbers.

Yours is a .38 Chiefs Special Model 36.

I hope your new revolver turns out better than it looks.

 

[Dump1567]

I think I looked at that yesterday?

Based on the characteristics and my limited knowledge, I'm guessing it dates to the early 80's (82-83)?

As explained, the original Pre-model guns where called the Chief Special. And in recent times, S&W have used that name on some of their smaller variant guns. The one you bought will be a 36 (not sure what dash number).

The finish looks like a chemical got on it. And I think blood will also do that to a blued gun, but I'm not 100%. I vaguely remember seeing finish wear like that on a gun and it was attributed to blood.

I would assume you'll find rust under the grips and in the internals. It will need a good detailed internal cleaning.