Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special .38 Special Revolver, No Dash, 1.875 in Barrel, Blued, 1972, 5‑Shot
This 1972 Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special (no dash) is a classic J-frame revolver with its original polished blued finish, a tapered 1 7/8-inch barrel, and a five-shot fluted cylinder. It retains its round-butt checkered walnut Magna stocks with S&W medallions and period-correct markings, making it a clean, well-kept example of a vintage S&W carry revolver.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The original high-polish bluing remains deep and uniform with only light evidence of responsible use and a faint cylinder turn line. The action is properly timed with a crisp single-action break and a smooth double-action pull. The original checkered walnut grips with S&W medallions are solid and show minimal wear.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson factory blue cardboard box with end label (handwritten serial visible)
Marked "MOD. 36" on the yoke cut with factory assembly numbers on the crane/yoke, this no-dash Chiefs Special aligns with the J-prefix serial range for its 1972 production. It is built on the compact J-frame with carbon steel construction and a polished blued finish.
The barrel is a tapered, round 1 7/8-inch configuration with correct rollmarks: "SMITH & WESSON" on the left and ".38 S.&W. SPL." on the right. It feeds a five-shot fluted cylinder and uses an unshrouded short knurled ejector rod, consistent with period features.
Sight regulation is by fixed sights: an integral serrated ramp front and an integral top-strap notch rear. The revolver retains its round-butt checkered walnut Magna stocks with inset S&W medallions for a classic J-frame profile.
Controls and small parts are correct for the era, including a smooth, narrow trigger and an exposed hammer with a checkered spur and color casehardened finish. Factory markings are present, including the S&W trademark logo on the left frame and the right-side frame block stamp reading "MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS."