Smith & Wesson Model 60 No-Dash Chief’s Special Stainless .38 Spl., 1.875" Barrel, 1977-78 Production
The first stainless-steel revolver ever offered by Smith & Wesson, this no-dash Model 60 dates to the 1977–1978 R-prefix run. Built on the compact J-frame and chambered in .38 Special, it retains the desirable pinned 1.875 inch barrel, unshrouded ejector rod, and all-forged internal parts. Its brushed satin finish, factory walnut Magna grips, and lack of later internal locks make it a sought-after example for shooters and collectors alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light surface scuffs are present on the frame and barrel, with minor edge rub at the muzzle and cylinder flutes. The walnut Magna stocks show modest handling wear but remain sound and well-fitted.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 60 no-dash revolver
- Factory walnut Magna service stocks with S&W medallions
Introduced in 1965, the Model 60 was the world’s first production stainless-steel revolver. This early no-dash example predates the engineering changes that added barrel shrouds, MIM parts, and internal locks, preserving the classic lines and all-forged construction collectors prize.
The R200xxx serial places manufacture squarely in 1977–1978. This era retains the pinned barrel and unshrouded ejector rod—features deleted in later runs—adding authenticity and period correctness to the revolver.
The 1.875 inch pinned barrel, six-groove right-hand twist, and five-shot cylinder keep dimensions compact while still delivering reliable .38 Special performance. Fixed sights consist of a serrated ramp front and square-notch rear groove, giving a snag-free profile ideal for concealed carry.
Stainless steel throughout—frame, cylinder, and barrel—offers corrosion resistance and a uniform brushed satin finish. The smooth, narrow trigger and exposed spur hammer support both double-action and single-action fire, while the factory hammer-block safety remains in place.
Original walnut Magna service stocks with inset S&W medallions complete the package, maintaining the revolver’s authentic late-1970s appearance.




