Colorado Newbee with a pre-Model 36 J-frame

[Fewman]

Just inherited a pre-Model 36, s/n 122xxx match to 1957 (I think). I recall seeing it under grandpa's mattress way back in the early 60's but never saw him fire it. I'm thinking he could have bought new(?). I don't know how to grade a firearm but it's in pretty good shape. I own a few S&W pistols but this will be my first S&W revo . I understand I should probably stay away from +P's and just use std loads. Looking forward to firing a few rounds tomorrow.

I'm sure I'll get some valuable info here from the membership. Thanks in advance!

[NWDave]

Just wanted to welcome you aboard. There's some experts floating around on this site that will be able to answer your questions better than I can.

There seems to be quite few new members from Colorado. If I may ask, which area do you live in?

[DocZeus]

NICE Flat-Latch, Fewman! Your Grandaddy's revolver appears to be in GREAT shape!

1957 is the date I get out of the Standard Catalog Of S&W 3rd Edition, too. Let us know how she shoots!

DocZeus
AKA
David

[carl418]

Hello and welcome!

[azmick]

Welcome, GrandPa probably felt pretty secure with that lump in his mattress, I would. It seems to have faired better than one that shuffled around in a sock drawer or in a night stand.
148 gr wad cutters in a standard loading out of that would be more effective with a hit on the second shot as a +P hollow point miss on the second shot. I am a firm believer in shot placement and continuing to shoot until the threat is no longer moving (yes, twitching is moving, bleeding out is not).

[storeyteller]

Welcome from GA.
My dad gave me the Model 37 yesterday, it was his dad's. Gonna be my first revolver also. I kinda like the look and feel of it and if I can hit anything with it at the range today I might shelf my LCP (for a while anyway) and start carrying this one as a backup. Look foward to hearing what you think about it after you shoot yours.

[FlaRon]

Welcome to the forum from sunny Florida.

Great little gun and it looks like it is in exceptional shape.

I shoot stndard velocity ammunition in my older S&W .38 spl. and I prefer the 158 gr. lead semi wadcutter.

I like it for practice and I feel that it is quite adequet for personal protection if needed.

Enjoy your new friend.

Regards,

FlaRon

[Bud11]

Welcome neighbor!

[Fewman]

If I may ask, which area do you live in?

Estes Park area. I live on Storm Mountain at 8100' bordering Roosevelt NF and overlooking the front range. If I 'skwint' hard enough, I think I can almost see Nebraska! Nearest neighbor is about 1/2 mile away and I have about a 4 minute walk to the 'range'.

[MOONDAWG]

Welcome aboard from Florida the "GunShine" state.