Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special .38 Revolver

Published on March 6, 2022
Duration: 8:04

This video provides an in-depth review of the Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special revolver chambered in .38 Special. The presenter discusses its history as a backup firearm for police officers, its five-round capacity, and its suitability for concealed carry. Technical details include observations on its smooth action, tight lock-up, and trigger pull weights for both double-action (heavy but crisp) and single-action (very light, around 2.5-3 lbs). The video also touches on the importance of firearm capacity in self-defense scenarios and personal anecdotes about the gun's ownership history.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special is a compact .38 Special revolver historically used as a backup firearm for law enforcement. While its five-round capacity is debated for modern self-defense, its concealability and smooth action, especially with modifications like Pacmeyer grips, make it a popular choice. The trigger pull is noted as heavy but crisp in double-action and very light (around 2.5-3 lbs) in single-action.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction: S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special
  2. 00:15Original Purpose: Backup Firearm
  3. 00:40Capacity Discussion: 5 Rounds
  4. 01:27Shooting at Steel Target (60 Yards)
  5. 01:56Shooting at Steel Target (40 Yards)
  6. 02:21Work Done on the Model 36
  7. 02:45History: Dad's First Gun
  8. 03:46Detailed Look: S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special
  9. 04:06Action and Lock-up
  10. 04:27Trigger Pull Discussion
  11. 04:32Pacmeyer Grips
  12. 04:46Cylinder Release and Ejector Rod
  13. 05:05Dry Firing Warning
  14. 05:20Double Action Trigger Pull
  15. 05:35Single Action Trigger Pull
  16. 05:56Single Action Trigger Weight Measurement
  17. 06:16Trigger Pull Comparison
  18. 06:20Revolver Hammer Types
  19. 06:35Double Action vs. Single Action Operation
  20. 07:13Shooting Impression
  21. 07:27Missed Shots Analysis
  22. 07:30Model Identification Recap

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special known for?

The Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special is renowned as a compact revolver originally designed as a backup firearm for police officers. It's chambered in .38 Special and is favored for its concealability, though its five-round capacity is a point of discussion for modern self-defense.

What are the trigger pull characteristics of the S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special?

The double-action trigger pull on this modified Model 36 is described as heavy but crisp. The single-action trigger pull is exceptionally light, measuring around 2.5 to 3 pounds, offering a very comfortable shooting experience when cocked.

Is the Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special good for concealed carry?

Yes, the Model 36 Chiefs Special is well-suited for concealed carry due to its compact size and relatively lightweight design. Its exposed hammer also allows for cocking into single-action mode for a lighter trigger pull, which can be advantageous.

What is the cylinder capacity of the S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special?

The Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chiefs Special typically features a five-round cylinder. While historically sufficient, the presenter notes that in modern self-defense scenarios, this capacity is considered by some to be inferior due to the potential for extended gunfights.

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