I just found a neat little S & W model 36-1 , 3 inch, nickel. The serial number is18XXB ( The last letter is not true)
Is this a special or what ???? Bob

Is that the number on the bottom of the butt?

Sounds like the # in the yoke area. What is the # on the bottom of butt???

The same serial number is in the yoke as on the butt. I can't find any info on a serial number like that in the standard catalog of Smith & Wesson.
The "Just Answer" website is B.S. They want $34.00 and do not know .

Bob :Archeryking"

The 36-1 is listed as a 1967 3" heavy barrel with a standard all number serial number. In 1969 the serial number was changed to a "J" prefix to comply with the 1968 Gun Control Act.

In looking at the serial numbers for the late 60s J-frame guns my guess is that the last digit in your serial number was supposed to be an 8 instead of a B...

I would also go over and ask on the S&W Forums....

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...post136252658.html?222977=#post136252658

Bob