What model do I have?

[riptrack44]

It's the size of a model 36. It's made of alluminum alloy (I don't know about the cylinder). It's called an 'Airlight'. It's chambered for the .38 spec (non +P). It's a snubbie and truly light as a feather. The s/n is J9152xx and is five shot. It was a trade-in at my local gun shop and was cheap when I bought it. If you have 'The Book', what model is it and approx when was it made? Thanks.

 

[riptrack44]

It's the size of a model 36. It's made of alluminum alloy (I don't know about the cylinder). It's called an 'Airlight'. It's chambered for the .38 spec (non +P). It's a snubbie and truly light as a feather. The s/n is J9152xx and is five shot. It was a trade-in at my local gun shop and was cheap when I bought it. If you have 'The Book', what model is it and approx when was it made? Thanks.

 

[Allen-frame]

Model 37 ? Made 1982.

Regards ,,AL

 

[Gunned-up]

It dob looks to be 1982. As far as the model, open the cylinder it well be stamped on the yoke.

 

[Guest]

With that serial number, if the gun is the size and shape of the M36 having an exposed hammer (not shrouded), then it's a M37 - Chiefs Special Airweight (not Airlight, that name is used very recently for some of the Ti/Sc gun models).
If the hammer is shrouded but accessible, it's a Bodyguard (M38).
This is all assuming you are showing the exact number of digits (J with six x's), if it's a J followed by 5 x's, then the gun is earlier than 1982.

 

[shawn mccarver]

Originally posted by riptrack44:
It's the size of a model 36. It's made of alluminum alloy (I don't know about the cylinder). It's called an 'Airlight'. It's chambered for the .38 spec (non +P). It's a snubbie and truly light as a feather. The s/n is J9152xx and is five shot. It was a trade-in at my local gun shop and was cheap when I bought it. If you have 'The Book', what model is it and approx when was it made? Thanks.

Based on the serial number, it seems like it should be an "Airweight" not an "AirLite," since the latter were not introduced until after S&W had changed to the three alpha, four numeric style of serial number.

If it has an exposed hammer, it is probably a Model 37, which is the Airweight version of the Chief's Special, Model 36.

In any event, if it was made since about 1958 or so, the Model number should be stamped on the frame in front of the cylinder, visible when you open the cylinder.

 

[riptrack44]

Sorry, it is an Airweight not Airlight. It is a Model 37 per the cylinder yoke. It's non pinned or recessed (bummer). It's s/n is 6 digit after the J. Thanks for the help!

 

[BUFF]

Originally posted by riptrack44:

"It's non pinned or recessed (bummer)."

None of S&W's .38 Specials have recessed cylinders, just the magnums (.357, .41, .44, .22 Centerfire Magnum/Jet) made before, more or less, 1980.

 

[Slim Chance]

Buff,
My models 30, 31 and 14 have pinned barrels. After looking in the SCSW, I realize you are correct on the recessed chambers. I would have bet against you.