Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this stunning double-action revolver today for a penny-start auction…this is the Smith & Wesson .38 Chief's Special “Pre-Model 36”!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38 Chief's Special “Pre-Model 36”
Serial: 26252
Date of Manufacture: 1952
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2" Pinned Barrel
Optics/Sights: Serrated Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Diamond Checkered Walnut
Action: Double/Single-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38 Chief's Special “Pre-Model 36” is a classic revolver with a storied history, renowned for its combination of compact size, solid construction, and reliable performance. Built on the J-frame—Smith & Wesson's smallest and lightest frame—the Pre-Model 36 features a 2-inch pinned barrel, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry. Chambered in the .38 S&W Special, it delivers ample stopping power while maintaining manageable recoil, making it an excellent choice for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. The revolver's nickel finish gives it a sleek, professional appearance, and offers added durability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for daily carry in various environments. The serrated ramp front sight and frame notch rear sight ensure quick target acquisition, even in low-light conditions, while the compact design makes it easy to carry discreetly.
Model: .38 Chief's Special “Pre-Model 36”
Serial: 26252
Date of Manufacture: 1952
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2" Pinned Barrel
Optics/Sights: Serrated Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Diamond Checkered Walnut
Action: Double/Single-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38 Chief's Special “Pre-Model 36” is a classic revolver with a storied history, renowned for its combination of compact size, solid construction, and reliable performance. Built on the J-frame—Smith & Wesson's smallest and lightest frame—the Pre-Model 36 features a 2-inch pinned barrel, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry. Chambered in the .38 S&W Special, it delivers ample stopping power while maintaining manageable recoil, making it an excellent choice for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. The revolver's nickel finish gives it a sleek, professional appearance, and offers added durability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for daily carry in various environments. The serrated ramp front sight and frame notch rear sight ensure quick target acquisition, even in low-light conditions, while the compact design makes it easy to carry discreetly.
Introduced at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) convention in 1950, the Chiefs Special quickly garnered attention for its performance and portability. A vote was held to determine a name for the new revolver, and the name “Chiefs Special” won, reflecting the gun’s appeal to law enforcement officers. Due to high demand, a 3-inch barrel version was produced almost immediately, though the 2-inch snub-nose configuration remained the most popular choice for concealed carry. Initially offered in either a blued or nickel-plated finish, the revolver was renamed the Model 36 in 1957, after which it continued to be produced under that designation. The Chiefs Special designation remained in use for the variant, and the pistol became a go-to firearm for off-duty police officers and private citizens alike, valued for its balance of power, concealability, and ease of use. Fitted with diamond checkered walnut grips, the Pre-Model 36 not only exudes classic style but also provides a secure, comfortable grip for both single and double-action operation. With its timeless design and reliable performance, the Pre-Model 36 remains a beloved example of Smith & Wesson's commitment to quality craftsmanship and functional firearm design.
Contents:
Contents:
This example is in great condition overall, showing little sign of consumer use and handling that we can see!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
Bryant Ridge also reserves the right to cancel any sales that may occur while gunbroker.com is experiencing technical issues that affects the entire site or a complete site outage, within an hour of the auction ending.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
