# Smith & Wesson Model 36 Classics .38 SPL Revolver **Brand:** Smith & Wesson **Category:** Single/Double Action Revolvers **Caliber:** .38 Special ## Specifications - **Caliber:** .38 Special - **Barrel Length:** 1.9" - **Capacity:** 5 rounds - **Finish:** Blued - **Weight:** 20.4 oz - **Overall Length:** 6.94" - **UPC:** 022188131314 - **SKU:** UCODb8Xi ## Description The Smith & Wesson Model 36 Classics is a 5-shot .38 Special revolver with a 1.9-inch barrel and blued carbon steel finish. It weighs 19.5 oz (1.2 lbs) with an overall length of 6.9 inches. ### Key Specifications - **Brand:** Smith & Wesson - **Model Name:** Model 36 Classics - **SKU:** 150184 - **UPC:** 022188131314 - **Caliber:** .38 SPL (Special) - **Action Type:** Single/Double Action (SA/DA) - **Capacity:** 5 Rounds - **Barrel Length:** 1.9 inches (4.8 cm) - **Overall Length:** 6.9 inches - **Weight:** 1.2 lbs (19.5 oz) - **Finish:** Blued Carbon Steel ### Detailed Features The Model 36 is an J-frame revolver, the same platform S&W has built small-frame revolvers on for decades. Both SA and DA modes are available: single-action for deliberate shots with a lighter pull, double-action for faster deployment with a heavier pull. Fixed integral front sight is simple and snag-resistant, suited for carry. The blued carbon steel finish gives it a traditional appearance and requires normal care against moisture. ### Usage Scenarios The 1.9-inch barrel and 19.5 oz weight make this a practical concealed carry option. It disappears in most holsters without printing significantly. Five rounds of .38 SPL is the standard capacity trade-off for a gun this size. The J-frame design has been carried by law enforcement and civilians for decades, and the manual of arms is well-documented and simple to learn. ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What caliber is the Model 36?** A: The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is chambered in .38 Special. **Q: Who makes the Model 36?** A: The Model 36 is made by Smith & Wesson. **Q: What type of firearm is the Model 36?** A: It is a single/double action revolver on the J-frame platform. **Q: How many rounds does the Model 36 hold?** A: It has a 5-round capacity. **Q: What is the barrel length of the Model 36?** A: The Model 36 has a 1.9-inch barrel. **Q: What finish does the Model 36 have?** A: It has a blued carbon steel finish. **Q: Where can I buy the Model 36?** A: Compare current vendor offers on this page. ## What Reviewers Say *Quoted verbatim from YouTube reviews. Each link opens the video at the moment quoted.* > I'm going to tell you guys you put that rubberized grip on there and it's a pleasure to shoot you shoot with this wooden grip and it's pretty stout. > > — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8o0aQ54iee0&t=472s) > It is a real crisp light break and again that's one of the things that most people do when they're shooting for accuracy they'll pull that hammer back. > > — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8o0aQ54iee0&t=980s) > This firearm it needs to be mastered and once you do you're able to really control The Recoil you know how it fires. > > — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8o0aQ54iee0&t=1015s) > The sights are very rudimentary I mean they're combat sites now this one has somebody put orange on there which actually makes it show up better. > > — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8o0aQ54iee0&t=1173s) > The hand fitting and the craftsmanship of these older revolvers honestly surpass the assembly line quick to put together Firearms that's in my opinion. > > — [sootch00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8o0aQ54iee0&t=1507s) ## What Customers Say *AI-generated insights from customer reviews* The Smith & Wesson Model 36, known as the Chief's Special, draws on a long reputation for reliability and simple operation. Owners appreciate the compact J-frame size and the no-nonsense design. There's little to adjust, little to fail, and the double-action pull is predictable once practiced. .38 SPL recoil is manageable for most shooters, and the cartridge's effectiveness for personal defense is well-established. The blued finish and classic appearance are attractive to buyers who want a traditional revolver over modern polymer options. Criticism typically centers on the trade-offs that come with any small revolver: 5-round capacity is lower than compact semi-autos, and reloading is slower. The 1.9-inch barrel also produces a shorter sight radius, which takes practice to shoot accurately at distance. These are inherent to the platform rather than defects in this specific model. Most owners accept the trade-offs knowingly and are satisfied with the Model 36 in its intended role as a carry revolver. ## Pricing **1 offers available** | Vendor | Price | |--------|-------| | Guns Com | $879.99 | ## Similar Products - [Smith & Wesson Model 10 Classic .38 SPL +P Revolver - 4" Blued](https://gunsnation.com/p/smith-wesson-model-10-classic-38-spl-p-revolver-4-blued/UCODbBPq) - [S&W Model 637 Lightweight .38 SPL +P Revolver - Compact Defense](https://gunsnation.com/p/s-w-model-637-lightweight-38-spl-p-revolver-compact-defense/UCODdEP9) - [Smith & Wesson 638 Airweight .38 Special Revolver - Lightweight Defender](https://gunsnation.com/p/smith-wesson-638-airweight-38-special-revolver-lightweight-defender/UCODdESL) - [Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight .38 SPL +P Concealed Carry Revolver](https://gunsnation.com/p/smith-wesson-642-airweight-38-spl-p-concealed-carry-revolver/UCODdGNj) - [Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight: Compact .38 SPL +P Defense Revolver](https://gunsnation.com/p/smith-wesson-642-airweight-compact-38-spl-p-defense-revolver/UCODbA7k) - [S&W Airweight Model 637 .38 Special Revolver with Lasergrip](https://gunsnation.com/p/s-w-airweight-model-637-38-special-revolver-with-lasergrip/UCODdEPX) --- *Data from [GunsNation](https://gunsnation.com)*