The Model 36 was designed in the era just after World War II, when Smith & Wesson stopped producing war materials and resumed normal production. For the Model 36, they sought to design a revolver that could fire the more powerful (compared to the .38 Long Colt or the .38 S&W) .38 Special round in a small, concealable package.
Since the older I-frame was not able to handle this load, a new frame was designed, which became the J-frame. The new design was introduced at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) convention in 1950, and was favorably received. A vote was held to name the new revolver, and the name "Chiefs Special" won. It was produced as the "Chiefs Special" until 1957, when it then became the Model 36. The "Chiefs Special" continued to be manufactured as a separate variant.
Specifications:
Barrel Length: 1.875"
Weight: 19.64 Oz.
Caliber: .38 Special +P
Grips: Smith & Wesson Rubber
Front Sight: Blade
Rear Sight: Milled In
Finish: Blued, Polished
Best Uses: Collectors/Personal Protection/Deep Concealment
Capacity: 5
Safety: None
Trigger: Case Hardened
Internal Lock: Yes
Action: Single/Double
Hammer: Exposed
Model Number: 36-10
Made In: This gun was built between 1972 and 1973 is our best estimate based on the Serial Number.
Serial Number: DPB1444
C&R Eligible: No
Sellers Notes: This gun is in Excellent condition, and has all the original Blued finish and has the Smith & Wesson rubber grips! There is a small blemish on the right side at the muzzle, where the bluing was chipped, the size of a paper clip point. We rate this gun at 99% condition. If you can better help us estimate production date, please message our shop with what you know. Doing a search we estimated this to be from the early 1970's, but we could be incorrect as it is hard to find information online dating the gun by the serial number.
