dating a handgun

[newlygunned]

Ive spent some hours reading threads trying to narrow my search on a handgun I received.

This is what I've gathered so far. Its a s&w .38 spl (stamped spl on the barrel). Model 36 is stamped under the cylinder, so Im guessing chiefs special or similar. 5 shot, 4 inch from cylinder to barrel, so im guessing snub nose. Dark steel, with wood grip with the steel s&w emblem.
My question is how do you date the serial numbers?? Mine starts with J and is 6 digits starting with 66 on the butt of the handle.

I dont really care about value, I only gave $100 for it, so Im content. I know it came from a police officer in the late 50's early 60's. I was just trying to be more precise.

Any help would be truly appreciate.

 

[lamazza]

S & W will give you the information..but I think there is a research charge.

 

[Deleted member 66305]

You can love your guns... just don't LOVE your guns.

 

[MrBorland]

My question is how do you date the serial numbers??

By doing just what you did.

Mine starts with J and is 6 digits starting with 66 on the butt of the handle.

It's a 1977-1978.

I know it came from a police officer in the late 50's early 60's.

Maybe so, but unless I'm way off, he didn't carry this gun then.

I only gave $100 for it

Sounds like a good deal. Enjoy!

 

[Brian Williams]

4" from the back of the cylinder or the front? Do not include the cylinder in the measurement. They only made model 36s in 2" or 3", not 4".

Nice purchase, it is worth about $250 to priceless depending on how much you liked the guy you got it from. Real price is about $300.

 

[newlygunned]

Thank you MR B, I appreciate your help.

One of these days i'll spend the $30 for the report from s&w,
but for now I'm gonna enjoy having it

 

[newlygunned]

Brian,

You are right, sorry for my newbie-ness.. Its 2"..
Family heirloom so I consider it priceless just a shame I had to buy it, but thats how families go