Model 36 birthdate Question

[Randallpink]

Gentlemen,

I just bought S&W Model 36 s.n. J66****.

Can anyone tell me the date? Also, did the Model 36 ever come with smooth grips? The ones equipped look like they belong on a Model 40.

Thank you.

 

[rcmodel]

1977-78 36-1.

Take the grips off.
If they are original to the gun they might still have had the serial number stamped on the inside of the grips then?

If not numbered to the gun?
Smooth J-Frame grips were available from S&W at that time, so they could have been special ordered with the gun, or replaced later.

rc

 

[Randallpink]

Thank you, sir. Would the stamp read "36-1"? This reads "Mod. 36" only.

 

[rcmodel]

Well, by that date, it should have, as the -1 change took place in 1967.

Stranger things have happened though.

rc

 

[Brian Williams]

36-1 was the addition of the heavy barrel version.

 

[rcmodel]

Good catch Brian!

I was running on too much coffee, and from an impatient wife this afternoon when I looked that one up.


What I Really want to know is, if the smooth grips had the serial number stamped on the inside??

rc

 

[Randallpink]

Thank you for the help. Checking now...

 

[ArchAngelCD]

My 1975 M36 has no dash added to the model number.