Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 37 .38 Chiefs Special Airweight Revolver, 2″ Blued, 1955
Manufactured in 1955, this Smith & Wesson pre-Model 37 .38 Chiefs Special Airweight blends early J-frame engineering with period-correct collectible features. A lightweight aluminum-alloy frame paired with a blued steel cylinder and pinned 2-inch barrel delivers the portability Airweight revolvers are known for, while retaining the durability demanded by everyday carry and service use.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – Shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor scratching, scuffing, holster wear, and blemishes are visible on the finish.
What’s Included
- Bucheimer black leather holster
Early production details set this revolver apart. The four-screw side-plate pattern—with the trigger-guard screw still present—reflects the transitional engineering changes of the mid-1950s.
The anodized blue aluminum-alloy frame trims roughly 30 percent of the weight found on comparable all-steel Model 36 revolvers. Combined with the compact round-butt J-frame and unshrouded knurled ejector rod, the package is ideal for discreet ankle or vest carry—exactly the niche S&W targeted for aircrew and plainclothes roles at the time.
A factory-blued, pinned 2-inch barrel features a serrated ramp front sight that mates with the fixed square-notch rear cut into the top strap, offering a snag-free profile. The color-case-hardened trigger and serrated service hammer spur retain vivid tones, underscoring quality production standards of the era.
Original checkered walnut diamond-Magna grips with brass S&W medallions confirm period authenticity; this grip style was phased out after 1968. Collectors value these early Airweights for their blend of lightweight alloy innovation and traditional S&W craftsmanship—traits fully present in this 1955 example.