Need help with a Smith Model 36

[doc540]

Our local retired sheriff gave my dad a Model 36 in nickel.

I just cleaned and polished it for him and might try and trade him out of it with a Taurus (and cash) I own. (emphasis on "try" since he's as a very street-wise man!)

First I need some the expert advice here:

1. Serial #175J69 What year of manufacture?
2. Is it rated for an occasional diet +P's?

It weighs 23oz and my Uncle Mike's fit it perfectly. Just might be a carry option for me.

thanks
doc

 

[Pumpkinheaver]

Can't help you with the year of manufacture. It's not rated for +P ammo but I run an occasional box through mine. Stick to standard pressure for most shooting.

 

[doc540]

Thanks.

Just found it's a 1972 model.

 

[S&Wfan]

Hi,

As has been discussed in many threads before, your Model 36 WILL handle +P loads. The older loadings for the .38 special could be quite hot vs. today's standards.

It shouldn't hurt a good Model 36 to shoot some hot loads in it occasionally, but WHY?

The classic .38 special load was the 158 grain LSWC-HP and it always did a very effective job in the snubbies.

JUST AS IMPORTANT (at least), this load will not buck like a horse and cause you to lose the tactical advantage of being unable to control the +P recoil and return fire with multiple shots in a timely, accurate manner.

In any snubbie (or any other handgun load and gun size) you have to assume that one shot will not instantly stop the threat. For that . . . you need a shotgun!

Thus, being able to make fast, mulitple hits with great accuracy is a must . . . and a hard-kickin' snubbie (or a hard kicking .44 magnum too) will not give you the faster, accurate hits you need to put a couple of extra rounds in the vital area before the BG puts a couple in you!

Thus, I'd recommend the standard velocity .38 ammo that's made to shoot best and most effectively in a snubbie!

T.