SW 36 chiefs model flat latch

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okierider

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Been looking to get a 36 . Problem is prices are all over the place and when I research , info is all over the place. See a chiefs model on CL with a flat latch then look into it and I guess chiefs model is supposed to be the only model with the flat latch . Look at GB to kind of get and idea what one is worth and the first Chief is see does not have a flat latch !!! Help folks

Here is the one I am looking at.
https://www.armslist.com/posts/11312445/oklahoma-city-oklahoma-handguns-for-sale-trade--s-w-
 

okierider

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@Glock 'em down is the guy I call for ANY S&W wheelgun questions
I figure a couple guys will chime in and educate me . But looking at that particular gun I feel it may be a little too nice for carry and I want no safe queens!! Enjoying the reading I have been doing on the 36.
 

Glock 'em down

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@Glock 'em down is the guy I call for ANY S&W wheelgun questions

Aww, shucks. :blush:

Well, S&W started putting model number on their revos in the late 50s, early 60s. The flat latch is an elusive, complex creature indeed. I've seen them on pre model numbered chief's as well as some 36s. The only consistency with S&W is their inconsistency. The front sight usually tells the tale. If it's a half moon and a flat latch, is a pre 1955-59. When they started giving the model numbers, they went with the serrated ramp, but some still wore the flat latch, like the sample you showed us.

I personally am not a fan of the flat latch, and that little jaybird definitely is not worth $650. No J fame, IMHO, is worth more that $450-500, but that's just me. Cheers! :sunbath:
 

okierider

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Aww, shucks. :blush:

Well, S&W started putting model number on their revos in the late 50s, early 60s. The flat latch is an elusive, complex creature indeed. I've seen them on pre model numbered chief's as well as some 36s. The only consistency with S&W is their inconsistency. The front sight usually tells the tale. If it's a half moon and a flat latch, is a pre 1955-59. When they started giving the model numbers, they went with the serrated ramp, but some still wore the flat latch, like the sample you showed us.

I personally am not a fan of the flat latch, and that little jaybird definitely is not worth $650. No J fame, IMHO, is worth more that $450-500, but that's just me. Cheers! :sunbath:

Thanks GED that is what I wanted to know!!
 

FrankNmac

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I believe that gun has been on Armslist a few times in the past. Not insinuating anything as it may just not have brought what the seller is asking.
 

zipty6

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Been looking to get a 36 . Problem is prices are all over the place and when I research , info is all over the place. See a chiefs model on CL with a flat latch then look into it and I guess chiefs model is supposed to be the only model with the flat latch . Look at GB to kind of get and idea what one is worth and the first Chief is see does not have a flat latch !!! Help folks

Here is the one I am looking at.
https://www.armslist.com/posts/11312445/oklahoma-city-oklahoma-handguns-for-sale-trade--s-w-



@Glock 'em down is correct, as usual.

Smith & Wesson also put the flat latch on a few other models.

Model 30-1:
30-1b1SM.jpg


.38 Military & Police Airweight (predecessor to the model 12):
PRE12a03SM.jpg


Model 12-2:
12-2a2SM.jpg
 

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