User Panel
User Panel
User Panel
VA, USA
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:15:22 PM EDT
[Last Edit: ButchA61]
This is so cool... I actually won! I won!
As soon as all the FFL paperwork, transfer fees, and background check and etc... etc... is all processed, I will be the proud owner of a classic 1972 S&W Model 36 J-frame .38 spl revolver. Due to privacy (obviously) the FFL dealer couldn't tell me anything, but that this was an older LEO's retired backup handgun, based in Ocala, Florida. Edit: Anyone have an old J-frame .38spl revolver? The serial# on mine traces it back to 1972.  
|
|
|
TX, USA
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:19:05 PM EDT
[#1]
Looks like it’s in great shape for its age.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:24:43 PM EDT
[#2]
Never heard of such a thing as a "J" frame revolver.
 Attached FileI'd never touch a new S&W if there is an older S&W available. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:35:12 PM EDT
[#3]
Mine is a police trade-in which had been refinished. The serial number (575xxx) dates it between 1962 and 1969 (most likely around 1966).
 Attached FileI also have a 3" 36-1 from some time in the early 80's. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:35:55 PM EDT
[#4]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By fxntime: Never heard of such a thing as a "J" frame revolver. Wat? J frame appreciation thread:  Attached File |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:42:51 PM EDT
[#5]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Parke1: Wat? J frame appreciation thread: https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/62064/20220318_175638_jpg-3044501.JPG Well, if we're going to make a J-frame appreciation thread, regardless of model...  Attached File |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 10:51:49 PM EDT
[#6]
 |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 11:05:32 PM EDT
[#7]
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 11:14:32 PM EDT
[#8]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Parke1: Wat? J frame appreciation thread: https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/62064/20220318_175638_jpg-3044501.JPG Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Parke1: Originally Posted By fxntime: Never heard of such a thing as a "J" frame revolver. Wat? J frame appreciation thread: https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/62064/20220318_175638_jpg-3044501.JPG Do I REALLY need to do this? 
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 11:25:25 PM EDT
[#9]
My mom purchased this no dash model 36 for my dad in 1971 for $50. Its now my safe queen.
 Attached File |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/29/2023 11:50:13 PM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By fxntime: Do I REALLY need to do this? @fxntime No balls... 
|
|
|
|
NC, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 1:30:07 AM EDT
[#11]
I bought a Model 36 off GB about a month ago. I bought it to carry, as the pictures of it showed what I though were several scratches on it. It had a set of ugly Hogue grips on it, but it looked solid at least. When I got it, my jaw dropped. What I thought were scratches werre lighting issues from bad photography. Didn't have a scratch on it. Just the HINT of a turn line on the cylinder. I paid $360 for what turned out to be a 1970 model. I bought a set of original grips off Ebay for $40. I have owned several in the past, and I sort of felt naked without one. I didn't really save any $$ by buying it though, as it's way too nice to carry, and I had to buy a Taurus 856 for that.
|
|
|
FL, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 1:51:13 AM EDT
[#12]
I have the model 37, lightweight, in a 3"barrel. 1972 bought new for about $78 + tax.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 2:01:50 AM EDT
[#13]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By HotHolster: I have the model 37, lightweight, in a 3"barrel. 1972 bought new for about $78 + tax. If you look at my family photo above, you'll see a 3" Model 37 above my 3" 36. It left the factory with a 2" barrel, though. I had a 'smith swap the 2" barrel for the 3" earlier this year. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 8:26:53 AM EDT
[#14]
That's a beauty!!
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 9:17:29 AM EDT
[#15]
Funny, I also bought a retired LEO Model 36.
Sweet gun and well made craftsmanship. I used to carry with the FBI +P loads. I don't seem to carry it much anymore. Still a decent gun. Its a slim but dense package when guns were made of steel! |
|
|
|
GA, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 12:41:05 PM EDT
[#16]
Originally Posted By ButchA61: This is so cool... I actually won! I won! As soon as all the FFL paperwork, transfer fees, and background check and etc... etc... is all processed, I will be the proud owner of a classic 1972 S&W Model 36 J-frame .38 spl revolver. Due to privacy (obviously) the FFL dealer couldn't tell me anything, but that this was an older LEO's retired backup handgun, based in Ocala, Florida. Edit: Anyone have an old J-frame .38spl revolver? The serial# on mine traces it back to 1972. https://i.imgur.com/3bcs7sU.jpg Funny, I have a 36 from a retired D.C. cop, and my old stomping grounds were Ocala Fla. 36 was retired for a mint original model 40 that's on my hip now... |
|
|
USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 12:53:21 PM EDT
[#17]
Circa 1958-59 flat latch blued 2” with Diamond grips came into the shop as a purchase. No box. Holster wear. Tight lockup.
Two fifty and it was mine. |
|
|
AZ, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 1:04:06 PM EDT
[#18]
I got two years ago a 36 No Dash Flat Latch. Hated the flat latch and put a newer style on. I know it's a sacrilege but I can convert back since I have the parts. Love the classic style of the older J Frames.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 8:17:52 PM EDT
[#19]
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 8:24:30 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Jack_Rackham]
[#20]
|
|
|
|
IA, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 8:52:06 PM EDT
[#21]
I was watching this exact auction on gunbroker, nice score OP! I picked up a 1968ish (records were lost in a fire according to Smith and Wesson) production no dash 36 a few months ago in pristine condition. I love these things.
|
|
|
WA, USA
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 8:56:42 PM EDT
[#22]
Terrier in .38 S&W and "Baby" Chief (short butt), both from the 50's.
 The Baby vs a later Chief  The Baby Chief again with 2 newer Js  Rob |
|
|
|
Posted: 11/30/2023 9:10:46 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dump1567]
[#23]
Congrats.
I picked-up this excellent condition square butt 72' from a local shop last month.  
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 9:18:58 PM EDT
[#24]
Well apparently now I need a J frame to keep my K and N frames company in the safe. Good looking revolvers gentlemen.
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 9:40:52 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Logan45: Well apparently now I need a J frame to keep my K and N frames company in the safe. Good looking revolvers gentlemen. Yes, yes you do. Immediately.  Attached File |
|
|
|
TX, USA
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 10:24:14 PM EDT
[#26]
Can you shoot .38 Spc +P loads in these older revolvers?
|
|
|
VA, USA
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 10:34:17 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By writerdeluxe2006: Can you shoot .38 Spc +P loads in these older revolvers? From my understanding, the old *heavy steel framed* revolvers can handle +P. But not on a regular basis. Due to age and decades of wear, they could only handle so much... Today's revolvers are more often than not "rated" for +P (as per stamped on the barrel), excluding the S&W Airweight and the S&W Ladysmith --- both extremely lightweight, aluminum framed revolvers. |
|
|
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 10:36:13 PM EDT
[#28]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By writerdeluxe2006: Can you shoot .38 Spc +P loads in these older revolvers? Steel frames post model numbers in moderation. But a steady diet wouldn’t be recommended. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/1/2023 10:47:51 PM EDT
[#29]
I had that one on watch, but mainly to see what it went for.
Hoping to pick one up myself in a few months. Congrats! |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/2/2023 10:14:37 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By HotHolster: I have the model 37, lightweight, in a 3"barrel. 1972 bought new for about $78 + tax. I'll give ya $100 for it, make ya a profit.................. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/2/2023 10:16:48 PM EDT
[#31]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Logan45: Well apparently now I need a J frame to keep my K and N frames company in the safe. Good looking revolvers gentlemen. You don't have any J-frames?????   Attached File |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/2/2023 10:20:31 PM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By writerdeluxe2006: Can you shoot .38 Spc +P loads in these older revolvers? Smith says a J-frame HAS to be a dash model before you put +P in one. The Model 37 Airweight wasn't cleared for +P until -3 models. I carry +P in several of my J-frames but never shoot the guns with them. I usually use wadcutters, to save wear on the guns. |
|
|
|
MN, USA
|
Posted: 12/2/2023 10:59:31 PM EDT
[#33]
J Frames are like potato chips, they come in a variety of flavors and you can't have just one...
    
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/3/2023 12:53:44 PM EDT
[#34]
We have one that was given to us by a family member. I believe it is from the late '50's, from what I have found/researched. Built like a tank and still solid all the way around. I put a set of older wood grips on it, square butt, but can't remember the name of them. It is a very nice shooting gun.
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/3/2023 12:55:57 PM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By patw: We have one that was given to us by a family member. I believe it is from the late '50's, from what I have found/researched. Built like a tank and still solid all the way around. I put a set of older wood grips on it, square butt, but can't remember the name of them. It is a very nice shooting gun. Altamont? |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/3/2023 5:10:49 PM EDT
[Last Edit: patw]
[#36]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By fxntime: Altamont? Just took the grips off to check. They are an older set of Herrett's grips. Very comfy and give the guns a full sized feel when shooting.This is not my pic but one I found.  Attached File |
|
|
|
VA, USA
|
Posted: 12/3/2023 5:31:57 PM EDT
[Last Edit: ButchA61]
[#37]
Thinking back to my post...
My S&W 36 was made in 1972. I seriously doubt I could shoot +P out of it. I wouldn't even want to try! |
|
|
AZ, USA
|
Posted: 12/3/2023 6:22:38 PM EDT
[#38]
The debate about plus p rages on forever.
First in these light guns shooting plus p is pointless for the extra recoil for very little gain in on target performance While theoretically you could wear a gun out faster with plus p, it would take tens of thousands of rounds to matter, doubtful any one is going to shoot a j frame that much! Smith indicates any steel frame model number marked gun is safe for plus p Most gun savvy snub users ( professionals who carried J frames as cops in the old days) recommend the humble 148 grain target wadcutter load in J frames Several good reasons 148’s are controllable and very accurate Relatively inexpensive Easily replicated with reloading data ( if you want to shoot a revolver a lot you need to be wealthy or a reloader end of story) Shoot to point of aim ( many plus P rounds run significantly lighter bullets and will often shoot way off from point of aim - I tried some 110’s in my J and they shot a foot low at ten yards) Meet penetration standards for defense The near absolute rule in snubs: If it expands it won’t penetrate If it penetrates it won’t expand Shooting plus p in a snub is pointless and even more ridiculous is those 357 magnum J frames ( ouch no thanks- like having a hammer hit your hand with every shot) Plus p is NOT. Going to turn your pistol into some sort of hand grenade, but for nearly all applications it doesn’t serve a purpose ( yes in 4” or longer barrel guns there can be some significant velocity and energy gains, but you just don’t see them in a snub) |
|
|
|
Posted: 12/4/2023 5:06:27 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By fxntime: Never heard of such a thing as a "J" frame revolver. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/32224/20220226_130345_jpg-3044489.JPG I'd never touch a new S&W if there is an older S&W available. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/4/2023 10:00:05 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By 103: If you have a model number (36) Chief's Special, you have a J frame. The Standard Catalogue of Smith and Wesson makes it very clear that no Model 36's were improved I frames, if that's what you're getting at. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By 103: Originally Posted By fxntime: Never heard of such a thing as a "J" frame revolver. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/32224/20220226_130345_jpg-3044489.JPG I'd never touch a new S&W if there is an older S&W available. He's getting at sarcasm. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/4/2023 11:48:20 PM EDT
[#41]
Model 60 no dash that my Dad carried as a cop back in the day. This was the first revolver, and only the 3rd gun I’d ever shot the fist time. It’s crazy to me how smooth the trigger pull is and how effective a group I can get with just a blade sight
 Attached FileDon’t have pics of his Model 19-3 4” that I have as well. That trigger is even better, breaks like glass. |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/5/2023 12:05:03 AM EDT
[#42]
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/5/2023 12:07:37 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Aimless]
[#43]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By ButchA61: Thinking back to my post... My S&W 36 was made in 1972. I seriously doubt I could shoot +P out of it. I wouldn't even want to try! Edit I've still only shot and carried standard .38. I did carry it as a back up gun for years but finally bought some newer j frames |
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/5/2023 1:44:52 PM EDT
[Last Edit: dump1567]
[#44]
Yesterday's score. Pre magnum smaller frame 60-7 from the early 90's, but specifically rated for +P per S&W. Some claim it's the "best" of the model 60's because of that. Came with everything except the Ladysmith soft case. Even had 2 extra sets of grips. I added the Pach's due to my large hands.
  |
|
|
|
VA, USA
|
Posted: 12/6/2023 8:17:31 PM EDT
[#45]
IT'S A DONE DEAL!!!!
 The local FFL dealer here in town called me and said it arrived safe and sound. They checked it all over and were amazed at it's condition for 1972. It was most definitely some LEO's backup piece down in Florida for years and years, until they phased them out. The FFL/gun shop here processed all their paperwork, contacted the Florida FFL shop, and did whatever they have to do. I filled out the 4473, went through the background check, and after $30 bucks, it legally became mine! Problem: I showed it to my wife, and had her hold it. For some reason or another, she said it felt comfortable in her hand! My pinky hangs off when I hold it. So, now what do I do? LOL... 
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/7/2023 10:40:27 AM EDT
[#46]
I used to have a 1971 model 36 that had belonged to a retired police chief. He had bobbed the hammer on it for easier pocket carry. I liked it, but eventually sold it for something different.
 Attached FileI now own the .357 capable version, the 360J, pictured with a 686+. It rides in my jacket as a backup, loaded with .38 +Ps.  Attached File |
|
|
|
FL, USA
|
Posted: 12/7/2023 10:05:57 PM EDT
[#47]
I have an I Frame S&W pre model 30 in 32 S&W Long that my grand dad carried, he carried the knuckles too.
Got 2 J Frames, a 60, and a 642. Over the summer my 87 year old mom bought the model 36 from a friend of hers for $300.    
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/7/2023 10:13:04 PM EDT
[Last Edit: TheOldRepublic]
[#48]
I should take my mod 36 out and admire it "catmeme"
|
|
|
|
VA, USA
|
Posted: 12/7/2023 10:21:14 PM EDT
[#49]
I stopped at Cabela's this morning, after I was done with my morning school bus runs (yes, yes, not only am I a retired "Coastie", but I drive a school bus for the county public schools - next year will mark 12 years!)
I grabbed a small, storage/carrying case, and a box of Hornady Critical Defense 110gr regular JHP (NOT +P). When I was back home, I loaded the 5 shot cylinder, tossed my S&W 36 in my coat pocket, and took my 82lb Pitbull/Lab mix for a dog walk (yes, I have a CWP here in Virginia). No issues at all... 
|
|
|
|
Posted: 12/8/2023 4:47:02 PM EDT
[#50]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By fxntime: Do I REALLY need to do this? Yes.
|
|
|
|
Win a FREE Membership!
Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!
You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.
AR15.COM is the world's largest firearm community and is a gathering place for firearm enthusiasts of all types.
From hunters and military members, to competition shooters and general firearm enthusiasts, we welcome anyone who values and respects the way of the firearm.
Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter to receive firearm news, product discounts from your favorite Industry Partners, and more.
Copyright © 1996-2024 AR15.COM LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Any use of this content without express written consent is prohibited.
AR15.Com reserves the right to overwrite or replace any affiliate, commercial, or monetizable links, posted by users, with our own.
Attached File
Attached File
Attached File
