Why Can't I Find a Mint No-Dash Model 36?

[b737lvr]

My 36 is a dash one. 3" bbl.

I was working a Knoxville gun show & a guy was walking around with it, trying to sell it. We dickered a bit & I bought it. Still have it, never have shot it.

I see them all the time at gun shows, conditions varying, of course.

Most pre 1997 S&Ws I find these days are either a massively over priced consignment or have some pretty obvious signs of abuse or kitchen table gunsmithing. I’ve gotten really good at finding where someone has messed with one. It’s gotten to the point where if you can’t find a normal decent gun at a normal decent price you’ve either just gotta buy a new one or buy the cheapest ones you can find to at least get your moneys worth out of it.

 

[Tony Tiger]

I have a minty 36 with a flat cylinder release and no turn ring I shot it once. I could let go.

 

[b737lvr]

I have a minty 36 with a flat cylinder release and no turn ring I shot it once. I could let go.View attachment 757655

I see things like this and I think about starting a firearms museum here in Sarasota. There are so many absolutely amazing well kept time capsules of firearms sitting around in safes that I believe should be shared with the public to enjoy the experience. Imagine a museum with weapons of all eras, types, and historical context that you could gaze your eyes upon with a simple admission price.

 

[Stangman14]

I've been looking for months for the above. It doesn't have to be unfired and I don't expect it to be. I just want nice, original, unmolested bluing. I check here regularly as well as Gunbroker. Nothing. Are they really that scarce?

Mods: This is NOT a wanted to buy ad. I'm just frustrated. Thanks.

I purchased a mint Model 36 no dash (1975)
from a fellow member here on the forum. They are definitely out there, you just have to constantly look for them

 

[GerSan69]

Here are a few that I found recently at my LGS. All three were sitting there in the case looking lonely. I could not decide which one to purchase, so all three came home with me.
The boxes were not with the guns, but some extras that I had lying around and thought they looked good together.

Hi Richard, that wouldn't be the shop that had two 60-15 3" in the case, would it? If so, I got the 940-1 from them today.....

I'm really tempted to go back for the nickel 36, too!
Gerry