Smith & Wesson S&W Model 36 Chief’s Special .38 S&W 2″ Revolver w/Letter
SOLD FOR: $1,025
WOA#: WY240213MC016
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 36, Chief’s Special
Serial Number: J580233
Year of Manufacture: June, 1980
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Action Type: Single or Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder with ejector.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “38 S & W SPL.”. The left sideplate is marked with the S&W monogram logo and the right side of the frame is marked with the four-line marcas registradas address. The crane-cut is marked “J580233 / MOD. 36”. The crane is marked “95572 AI3”. The backstrap is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.”.
Barrel Length: 2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade machined into the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch at the end of a U channel in the top strap of the frame.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold S&W medallions at their tops. This model has a swivel lanyard ring built into the heel. The right grip panel has a small spot where the finish has marred. The checkering is very well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is a faint turn line on the cylinder and some very faint hairline marks in the finish when viewed at the right angle. The markings are clear, the screwheads are sharp. Overall, this handgun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder shows almost no side to side play while in lock up. The double-action trigger is smooth and the single-action trigger is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol Includes a serial matching box, owner’s manual, and Smith and Wesson letters about this gun.
Our Assessment: The Chief’s Special also known as the model 36 was introduced in 1950 at the international Association of Chiefs of Police held in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The name for the new revolver, “Chiefs Special”, was selected by vote from all of the Chiefs of Police from all over the world. The .38 Chief special was originally offered with a two inch barrel in blue finish. According to the letter “We have researched your Smith & Wesson .38 Chief Special model 36 caliber .38 S&W special, revolver in company records which indicate that your handgun, with a butt serial number J580233 was shipped form our factory on June 23, 1980 and delivered to AAA police supply Inc, Dedham MA.” “This revolver was one of a group of revolvers that were an over run of production United States Navy Contract in July 1977. These Navy revolvers were stamped “US” on the back strap and the company added in 1980 “MADE IN A” to the backstrap so they could be sold”. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
