Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this unique and eye-catching cased double-action revolver set for a penny-start auction; this is the Smith & Wesson Model 36, also known as the .38 Chiefs Special!
This particular Smith & Wesson Model 36 is a striking and highly collectible example, distinguished by its rare “Pinto” finish — a factory blue frame paired with a contrasting nickel cylinder, a combination prized for its unique aesthetic and relative scarcity. Housed in an elegant wooden presentation case lined in rich blue velvet, this set includes S&W-branded poker chips and a deck of playing cards, enhancing its appeal as a commemorative or special-edition display piece. The thoughtful presentation and dual-tone finish elevate this revolver beyond a functional firearm into a conversation-worthy collectible, appealing to both Smith & Wesson enthusiasts and serious collectors who appreciate limited-production variants that embody the brand’s mid-century craftsmanship and flair.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: 36
Serial: J847637
Date of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Blue with Nickel Cylinder (Referred to as a "Pinto")
Barrel Length: 2" Pinned
Optics/Sights: 1/10" Serrated Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Pearlite with Silver S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 “Chief’s Special” is an iconic small-frame five-shot revolver introduced in 1950 as S&W’s compact J-frame response to demand for a concealable, reliable defensive handgun. Built on the K-frame’s shortened predecessor (the small “Chief’s Special” or J-frame lineage), the Model 36 is chambered in .38 Special and typically features a 2" (and in some runs 1 7/8" or 3") barrel, a fixed-sight barrel/forced-cone design, and a swing-out cylinder that accepts five rounds. Early examples wore highly polished blued finishes and walnut or checkered plastic grips; over the decades, S&W produced stainless and alloy-frame variants, model subtypes with rounded or square butt frames, and service/collector editions (including model 36-1, 36-2 updates reflecting changes in metallurgy and internal parts). The revolver’s short single-action and double-action trigger geometry, coupled with its low bore axis and compact grip, make it controllable and intuitive for point-shooting at short defensive distances. Historically, the Model 36 gained widespread adoption among plainclothes police, detectives, and civilians who wanted a straightforward, concealable backup, and its reputation for rugged simplicity and predictable function has made it a perennial favorite in the carry revolver market.
Model: 36
Serial: J847637
Date of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: .38 S&W Special
Finish: Blue with Nickel Cylinder (Referred to as a "Pinto")
Barrel Length: 2" Pinned
Optics/Sights: 1/10" Serrated Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Pearlite with Silver S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 “Chief’s Special” is an iconic small-frame five-shot revolver introduced in 1950 as S&W’s compact J-frame response to demand for a concealable, reliable defensive handgun. Built on the K-frame’s shortened predecessor (the small “Chief’s Special” or J-frame lineage), the Model 36 is chambered in .38 Special and typically features a 2" (and in some runs 1 7/8" or 3") barrel, a fixed-sight barrel/forced-cone design, and a swing-out cylinder that accepts five rounds. Early examples wore highly polished blued finishes and walnut or checkered plastic grips; over the decades, S&W produced stainless and alloy-frame variants, model subtypes with rounded or square butt frames, and service/collector editions (including model 36-1, 36-2 updates reflecting changes in metallurgy and internal parts). The revolver’s short single-action and double-action trigger geometry, coupled with its low bore axis and compact grip, make it controllable and intuitive for point-shooting at short defensive distances. Historically, the Model 36 gained widespread adoption among plainclothes police, detectives, and civilians who wanted a straightforward, concealable backup, and its reputation for rugged simplicity and predictable function has made it a perennial favorite in the carry revolver market.
In practical use, the Model 36 shines as a dedicated close-quarters defensive tool where concealability and immediate reliability trump capacity or long-range accuracy. Its strengths are straightforward: an extremely durable, easy-to-maintain design; excellent reliability with a wide range of .38 Special loads (including +P in many later or stainless examples—verify your particular gun’s rating); and a compact package that is easy to carry all day. Tradeoffs include limited sight radius and five-round capacity, snappy recoil with stout defensive loads in such a light, short-barrel package, and potential trigger feel that some shooters find heavy in double action (many owners prefer to train in the double-action draw or have a gunsmith tune the action for a smoother pull). For buyers and owners the usual inspection checklist is critical: verify cylinder lockup and timing (no perceptible play when locked), check the forcing cone and crown for erosion or peening that will degrade accuracy, inspect the cylinder face and extractor star for peening or chipped ejector-rod threads, and examine the frame and crane for cracks—common failure points on heavily used or dropped revolvers. Confirm the gun’s .38 +P rating if you intend to use hotter defensive ammunition, test function with several brands of ammo, and if carrying daily, consider grips and holster selection to manage recoil and concealment. Well-maintained Model 36s remain highly practical defensive revolvers and collectible Americana.
Contents:
Contents:
This example is in superb condition, showing no evidence of regular consumer use or handling that we can see! Additionally, it will ship with the wooden presentation case lined in blue velvet, S&W poker chips, a deck of playing cards, and an additional blue cylinder as pictured above.
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.
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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.
