Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special .38 Special, 2-inch Pinned Barrel, Bright Nickel, J-Frame, 5-Shot (1971–1972)
This Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special is a 1970s J-frame revolver with a factory bright nickel finish, a 2-inch pinned and tapered barrel, and classic fixed sights. Built from carbon steel with a round-butt frame, it features forged, color-case hardened controls and walnut service stocks with S&W medallions. The "N" stamp indicates the factory nickel finish, and the floating "J" serial block dates it to approximately 1971–1972.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Scratches and blemishes are present on the bright nickel finish, with small, localized deposits of pitting on the surface. Minor carbon buildup is visible on the cylinder face and around the forcing cone, consistent with normal use.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special .38 Special revolver
The Model 36 Chiefs Special is a compact J-frame, 5-shot .38 Special revolver with a round-butt frame and fluted cylinder. This example retains the classic fixed sight setup with a serrated ramp front and a rear notch milled into the top strap for a clean, snag-resistant profile.
Its 2-inch barrel is both pinned and tapered, a hallmark of early production. The frame, cylinder, and barrel are carbon steel with a factory bright nickel finish, verified by the "N" stamp. The yoke cut is correctly marked "MOD. 36."
Controls include a smooth trigger and a checkered hammer spur, both forged and color-case hardened, along with a checkered cylinder release. The revolver wears checkered walnut service stocks with S&W medallions, completing the period-correct configuration.
Dating to approximately 1971–1972 within the floating "J" serial block, this U.S.-made Chiefs Special represents the classic 1970s DA/SA carry revolver in a desirable nickel finish with the pinned barrel feature.