Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 36, Chief's Special
Serial Number: ABW1253
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1983
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action Only Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked "SMITH & WESSON", the right is marked ".38 S&W SPL", and the left of the frame has an “S&W” monogram logo. The crane cut is marked with the model number, the crane has an assembly number. The right of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas address. The butt is marked with the serial number. There is custom floral scroll engraving on the barrel, frame, sideplate, and cylinder, with a sunburst engraved on the crane, and border engraving on the side edges of the topstrap.
Barrel Length: 1 7/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth white synthetic panels. The grips have some minor scuffing and light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine Plus condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished at the time of engraving.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates a 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 99% of its current metal finish. The new finish is generally strong throughout, showing minor operational wear. There are a couple small nicks under the finish on the left of the barrel next to the front sight. There is infrequent minor erosion under the finish, most notable on the sideplate behind the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine to Excellent condition as custom engraved.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks with barely perceptible play on each chamber. We have not fired this revolver. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The J-Frame Smith & Wesson revolver has been a staple of concealed carry since 1950, and will likely continue to be for decades to come. It all started with the Chief's Special, later to be known as the Model 36.
While some carry guns are strictly utilitarian pieces, sometimes one needs a gun for more formal events. This Smith & Wesson 1980s Model 36 Chief’s Special has been custom engraved, given a deep blue finish at the time of engraving, and set-off nicely by a pair of white synthetic grips. The result is an attractive small-frame revolver, perfect to add to any collection.
Pistol