[goon]

I was going to get a 640 or something of that persuasion but I stumbled across a VG+ condition M-36. I tried it out in my front jeans pocket and with a pocket holster it will look like a wallet.
Perfect. :D
I got it for $175 which is over $100 cheaper than the next choice would have been. Even haggled a box of ammo out of them. :D
Good deal for me because I don't have a whole lot to spend until I sell my Cz-75 and I needed a smaller carry gun. I was wondering if you guys could tell me where to look for a good pocket holster made out of thin leather. I would also like to replace the factory grips with something that will keep the same overall size but fill my big hands a little better. The checkering on them also digs into my hand. I would prefer wood grips, something similar to the factory Taurus grips.
Also, the gun is an unhypenated M-36. It is simply stamped "mod 36" under the crane. It is a round butt model. Can anyone give me an idea of when it was made?
While we are at it, are there any good defensive non +P loads for the .38SPL and where can I order them from?
Alot to ask, I know.
But you guys have a way of coming up with answers... ;)
Thanks.

[Old Fuff]

Before going any further we need the serial number (located on the butt). Post it like "2347xx" and include any letters that come before the number.

The very early model 36's had a slightly different handle size which could effect getting grips. That's an issue that has to be settled first.

With this gun you are wise to pick a non +P load. If you can't find something better, use 148 grain/full wadcutters/ loads. Mild but effective at close range.

As for the price ... You stole it .....

[goon]

Serial number on the butt is 609XXX.
It also has a serial number on the frame under the crane: 12XXX.
Thanks.

[StephenT]

Yes, that's an excellent price for an old-time classic. Not sure what alternate grips exist for that model, though.

[sabre]

Assuming there is a "J" prefix to your S/N, it would date to 1977 or so.

If this S/N - date is correct, most any J frame grips of the correct style (round or square butt) will fit fine.

While I have no personal experience I have heard good things about these pocket holsters: http://www.hedleyholsters.com/

Bill

[goon]

No prefix on the serial number.
It also has the older larger checkered hammer and grooved trigger and a pin in the frame behind the barrel.
The sights also seem narrower than newer models.
Thanks and keep the advice coming.

[sabre]

OK, then likely made around 1967. ;) As long as its marked with the model number (visible when the cylinder is open, and verifying my date - sorry its getting late!) then my comments regarding the grips still apply.

Bill

[Old Fuff]

Your gun was made around 1967 - 69, and has the current-day handle size so grips should be no problem. The front sight is a 1/10" blade which is more narrow then they use today.

For a good price on grips go to: www.cdnninvestments.com

[Ala Dan]

Hey goon -

I too prefer the wooden walnut grips on S&W J-frames,
but I have had Hogues "Bantam" rubber grips on my
old S&W model 60 for about the last three year's, and
I have come to love 'em. No change in the size, and
actually it seems like I have more control over the J-
frame .38?

When I'm not using my .45 caliber SIG P220A as a
primary CCW (which is rare); often times I tuck the
model 60 into a $6.00 Bianchi IWB holster and go
about my business. I have qualified several times
on a 60 round A-POST police course with this little
gem.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

[goon]

Thanks for all the help guys.

[one45auto]

Maybe you guys could help me out also. I own a used S&W Model 36 and the prefix before the serial number on mine is "ABA." Anyone have a general idea as to when it was manufactured?

[Bob]

One of the holsters I use for my 101 is a Galco, I think it's horsehide. Very thin, cut to fit the front pants pocket. It works great in my jeans. Sometimes I use one of Uncle Mike's pocket holsters and basically like it, but I wish it had a "tail" on it to keep it up-right in the pocket. One of these days I'll get around to sewing one on.
Bob

[shooter58]

I have a nickled m36 from about the same era. I use the stock wooden grips with a Tyler T-grip adapter on it. I have rather large hands and this is a comfortable configuration. You might try it.

[goon]

I did think about a T-grip.
How do they attach?
The checkering on the factory grips sort of digs into my hand but a little sandpaper could probably cure that. A T-grip would be cheaper than most of the other alternatives I have looked at.
Thanks.