Need help with a S&W revolver

[GlockTank]

This 38. spl was handed down to me from my grandmother. It was my grandfathers backup before he was killed in the line of duty in los angeles. I have been trying to figure out what model number it is but there is no markings for model number. It has a serial number in the 12,XXX and I just really need any information I can get about it anything would be helpful, thank you calgunners.

[IMG][/IMG]

[shooting4life]

Looks like a pre 36 flat latch. If it is a lightweight frame then it would be a pre model 12 flat latch. Not worth much in dollars but I am sure worth more than any other gun to you.

[Fishslayer]

I'll guess a pre-36 Chief's Special made 1952-ish?

Beautiful revolver.

EDIT: $$$ to donuts S4L didn't even need to look in his SCS&W.

[GlockTank]

Awesome thanks guys much appreciated

[gorenut]

Thats a perfect combination of grips. Love those grips with the Tyler grip adapter.

[dougtoni]

Beautiful gun. You can call S&W and ask customer service. They can tell you year, etc.

[littlejake]

Might consider getting a letter from Roy Jinks, the historian for the S&W Collector's Association. All the older records for S&W went to SWCA.

http://www.theswca.org/factory_letter.html

[Revoman]

First off, I am saddened by the loss of your Grandfather, he must have been a good guy.

I would also bet that S4L is correct. I is a flat latch. Nice shape too for a backup/carry type weapon. Not many scratches from what I can tell.

Treasure what your Grandad left you, it can be by your side for the rest of your life.

[Mr. Beretta]

Approx. April to June 1952, pre model 36 "flat latch", round butt, 5 screw frame, 5 shot 38spl, factory diamond grips probably numbered to gun, Tyler grip adapter, everything looks original.

Absolute priceless. Worth the $50 fee for the history letter from S&W.

Sorry about your Grandfather.

[Ron-Solo]

You have an amazing piece of family history. The Model 36 was a mainstay backup and off duty gun for law enforcement for decades. It's main competition was the Colt Detective Special and the SW Model 60 Chief's Special, which was identical to the Model 36, except for the stainless steel finish.

When you open the cylinder, the model number should be stamped on the frame.

As a retired LA County Deputy Sheriff, I mourn your Grandfather's loss. I am saddened every time I visit the LA County Peace Officers Memorial at the STARS Center in Whittier. I knew too many of the names on he wall. It is personal for me. Several were friends?

[GlockTank]

Wow thank you everyone for the kind words, it is a very special piece that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I think I will get the letter just for a keepsake that would honor the gun. Much appreciated thank you again

[Fishslayer]

Glad to see somebody interested in the history of a family heirloom instead of the usual "How many video games is this old revolver worth?"

A letter from Mr. Jinks himself will probably be a collector's item one day. He ain't gettin' any younger. The man is an icon in the world of S&W.