Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special No-Dash .38 Special, 1.75 in Blued J-Frame Revolver (1983)
This 1983 Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special is a no-dash, steel J-frame revolver with a high-polish blued finish and classic S&W walnut Magna stocks. It features a tapered 1.75 in barrel with an integral serrated ramp front sight, a five-shot fluted cylinder, and traditional exposed hammer. Well-kept and clean, it presents as a strong example of an early-1980s Model 36.
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.
Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Very well maintained.
What's Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special no-dash revolver
Built on a steel J-frame, this Model 36 is the classic five-shot .38 Special Chiefs Special configuration. It uses a carbon steel frame, cylinder, and tapered barrel, all finished in high-polish blue. The round-butt grip frame wears checkered walnut Magna-style stocks with S&W medallions.
Sighting is straightforward and durable, with a fixed rear top-strap notch and an integral serrated ramp front sight on the barrel. The ejector rod is unshrouded with a knurled tip, matching the period-correct configuration for this no-dash variant.
The action is double-action/single-action with a smooth, combat-style trigger and an exposed hammer with a checkered spur. The yoke cut is marked "MOD. 36," and the revolver carries factory rollmarks including the standard Smith & Wesson barrel legends and S&W trademark crest.
Manufactured in 1983 in the United States, this Chiefs Special reflects the 1980s production era details collectors look for, including the high-polish blued finish, five-shot fluted cylinder, and clean, traditional lines.