U.S.A. .38 Smith & Wesson Model 36 SPL 5-Shot Revolver (Chiefs Special), Deactivated

*U.S.A. .38 Smith & Wesson Model 36 SPL 5-Shot Revolver (Chiefs Special), Deactivated*

Serial Number: BBA8248
Assembly number: 61826
Calibre: .38"
Barrel length: 1.75"

Marked on RHS Receiver: Made in U.S.A. Marcas Registradas Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Mass.
Marked on RHS Barrel: .38 S&W SPL
Marked on LHS Barrel: Smith & Wesson
Marked on LHS frame: S&W Trademark Reg US Pat. Off
Marked on Crane: Mod 36, 61826
Marked underneath Barrel: Flaming Grenade
Marked on Grip Heel: BBA8248

The Smith & Wesson Model 36, also known as the Chiefs Special, is a compact J-frame revolver chambered in .38 Special, introduced in 1950. It was designed to deliver more power than earlier small-frame revolvers by using a newly developed J-frame capable of handling the higher-pressure .38 Special round, all within a concealable package.

Built for ease of carry, the Model 36 came with 2-inch (1.875") or 3-inch barrels, both with fixed sights. This particular example probably dates from between 1966—when S&W changed from a flat to a raised thumb latch—and 1967, just before the introduction of the Model 36-1.

Like most J-frames, it features a 5-shot swing-out cylinder, exposed hammer, blued finish, and wood grips. First introduced at the 1950 IACP conference in Colorado Springs, the revolver earned its name by vote: Chiefs Special. In 1957, Smith & Wesson adopted a model number system, renaming it the Model 36, though the original name remained popular.

The Model 36 was produced from 1950 to 1999, and its legacy continues in current models such as the Model 60, 637, 36LS, 340, 360, and their variants, using updated materials but retaining the classic design.

*Condition*
Deactivated with a working action it can be cocked and dry fired. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.