Smith & Wesson Chiefs Special Airweight (Pre-Model 37) .38 Special, 1.875-Inch, 5-Shot J-Frame Revolver (1956)
This 1956 Smith & Wesson Chiefs Special Airweight is a pre-model-number example that later became the Model 37. It features the early flat-latch cylinder release, an alloy frame paired with a steel barrel and cylinder, and the correct barrel marking "AIRWEIGHT .38 SPL. CTG." The absence of a "MOD." stamp in the yoke cut reflects pre-1957 factory practice, making this an early Airweight J-frame with hallmark period features.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: Widespread pitting and corrosion are present on the metal surfaces, with spots of rust formation. The exterior shows widespread scratches and blemishes. The action operates smoothly, and cylinder lockup is tight. The grip/stock cross screw is missing from the walnut service stocks.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Chiefs Special Airweight (Pre-Model 37) .38 Special revolver
Built on the J-frame with a five-shot cylinder, this Chiefs Special Airweight combines an anodized aluminum alloy frame with a blued carbon steel barrel and cylinder. The 1.875-inch barrel length is correct for the model and era, and the unshrouded ejector rod reflects the early-production configuration.
Markings and controls align with mid-1950s production: the barrel is roll-marked "AIRWEIGHT .38 SPL. CTG.," the topstrap is longitudinally grooved, and the revolver uses the early flat-latch cylinder release. The lack of any "MOD." marking in the yoke cut further confirms its pre-1957, pre-model-number status.
Sighting is fixed, with a serrated ramp front and a square-notch rear milled into the topstrap. The hammer is exposed with a checkered spur, and the trigger is smooth and narrow, supporting double-action/single-action operation.
Original-style round-butt walnut service stocks feature diamond checkering and inset S&W medallions; the grip screw is missing. The revolver presents the period-correct blued and anodized finishes over its steel and alloy components, consistent with Airweight construction of the 1950s.