Tell Me about my S&W

[Bad-Habit]

I just recieved a S&W .38 special from my father in law who passed away. I am trying to find out whatever I can about the gun such as quality,worth and performance....It is a Model 36 but has a 3"barrell...Everything I have found has the model 36 with a 2" barrell..... It has a blue/black chrome finish and wood grips....Any info would be appericiated.

Thanks
BH

 

[ChristopherG]

Sorry I can't help you directly; but if we as a forum are slow to answer your inquiries, I suggest posting this at smith-wessonforum.com. Those fellas know their wheelguns. Post in the forum on S&W revos 1945-present.

 

[PBIR]

Model 36's (.38 chief special) were offered in both 2" & 3" barrels. Square-butt version was introduced in 1952.

NIB Exc V.G. Good
$300 $250 $200 $175


- from 2004 Standard Catalog of Firearms, pg 1032


Hope that helps some.

 

[Preacherman]

Calling Tamara... Oooohhh, Taaaamaraa....

 

[wasrjoe]

FYI, most people do not like putting their firearm's serial number out on the internet. I do not really know why to be quite honest, but you may want to edit that out.

 

[yesterdaysyouth]

looks like it was made in early 1971 if that serial# is a j prefix, which would make sense, since it has a model # on it...

take a look at the revolver checkout thread, run it through.... if everything looks good, go pick up some 38 sp. and get to work...

i'd have to give somebody a big "thanks"... and maybe a smile for that....

 

[Brian Williams]

80j6xx puts the birthday around 1971-72
Great gun shoot 38 specials only no +p.

I have seen them any where around $250 to $400

Shoot it and remember your Dad.

 

[Bullet Bob]

Good advice so far. I'm a little confused about the "blue/black chrome" thing though. Is it just shiny blueing, which was a standard S&W finish in those days? That and the shiny nickle were all the the model 36 was offered in. There is a black chrome finish, but it was not offered by S&W, and you rarely hear of it anymore, as it's not nearly as durable as hard chrome. Either way, the 3" 36's are great guns, and well respected by knowledgeable S&W fans.

 

[LynnMassGuy]

Old S&W blueing is the most beautiful color in the world!

 

[Josey]

There was a contract order and a accidentally on purpose overrun of production of those models. A large contract security firm ordered them to arm their guards. Mine was from CIA in St. Albans, VT. They are pretty common in my area. They usually sell for $170.00. Model 36 grips, speed loaders and other accessories fit these revolvers. They make a good CCW weapon. I have seen several that had bobbed hammers for CCW. They will withstand carry of +P, practice loads should be standard loadings. 147 gr JHPs work well in that 3" barrel.

 

[Radagast]

3 inch heavy barrel j frames where standard issue to a couple of state police departments here in Australia up until recent times. Ditto 3 inch model 10s.

Ken