Smith & Wesson Model 36
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Smith & Wesson Model 36 | |
|---|---|
 Smith & Wesson Model 36 Revolver |
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| Type | Service Revolver |
| Place of origin |  United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1950–present |
| Used by | various law enforcement, security personnel, and private citizens |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Unit cost | $711.00 MSRP |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 20.4 oz. with 1 7/8" barrel, |
| Length | 6 15/16" with 1 7/8" barrel, |
| Barrel length | 1 7/8" |
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| Caliber | .38+P |
| Action | Double Action |
| Effective range | 23 meters |
| Maximum range | 46 meters |
| Feed system | 5-round cylinder |
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is a revolver chambered for .38 Special. Like nearly all other "J-frame" Smith & Wesson revolvers, it has a 5-round capacity in a swing-out cylinder, and features an exposed hammer. It features a blued finish and either wood or rubber grips. It is also offered in special Lady Smith and Chief's Special Models.[1]
The gun was introduced at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) conference held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in October 1950, as the Chief's Special. When Smith & Wesson went to a number system in 1957, the Chief's Special was designated the Model 36[2]. A stainless steel version of the Lady Smith .38 was for a time sold as the Model 60 though today this model denotes a .357 Magnum version.
Its 2" barrel version is one of the preferred backup and conceal carry weapon for law enforcement officers and for civilian use; although much practice is required to achieve precision shooting with it at mid-range, which is why it is commonly referred to as a "close quarters gun" or as a "belly gun", as some people claim it is best for being pressed directly against the target's belly and shot.
This model has been copied by other makers, but its reliability has kept it selling over the years.
