SMITH & WESSON MODEL 36
Posted May 25, 2023
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is one of the most beloved and enduring handguns in the world. Since its introduction in 1950, the Model 36 has gained a devoted following of enthusiasts and continues to be a mainstay of the handgun market. It is one of the oldest, and most iconic, revolvers of all time, and possibly the quintessential small-frame revolver handgun.
The Model 36 is a six-round, double-action, centerfire revolver chambered in .38 S&W Special. The revolver has a five inch barrel and cylinder, along with checkered walnut stocks and a blued finish. It is extremely compact and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry or pocket sized self-defense.
The Model 36 derives its name from Smith & Wesson’s iconic Third Model Hand Ejector that first appeared in 1899. The Third Model was Smith & Wesson’s first successful attempt at their “top-break” design, allowing for quicker reloading of the revolver. Smith & Wesson followed this design up with their .38 Military & Police revolver in 1901.
The Model 36 marks the evolution of Smith & Wesson’s top-break design, integrating the bolt lockup mechanism seen in their earlier revolvers. This bolt lockup improved upon the strength and durability of the earlier iterations, allowing for stronger action, longer cylinder life, and higher pressures. This was essential for the .38 S&W Special round, which Smith & Wesson standardized in their handgun’s in 1905.
The Model 36 is still manufactured today in its original configuration, although some combat and target versions have been produced for recreational or tactical use. Despite its age, the Model 36 remains popular today, competing with any modern small-frame handgun in terms of accuracy, reliability, and quality. The smooth action and simple, clean design make it ideal for novice shooters, and its compact size makes it a natural choice for concealed carry.
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is a classic, and has rightfully earned its place as one of the most legendary and enduring firearms of all time. It has served (and continues to serve) as a reliable companion for personal and professional shooters alike, and is beloved by gun collectors and enthusiasts the world over. It is an accurate, reliable, and durable handgun, able to keep up with any modern handgun despite its age. It is lightweight and compact, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry. Above all, it is a timeless, elegant design that is pleasing to shoot and behold. The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is an absolute classic, and will continue to be a mainstay of the handgun market for years to come.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Durable and reliable - The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is built to last with high-quality materials that make it both reliable and durable.
- Easy to use - The Smith & Wesson Model 36 features a simple design and function which makes it easy and convenient to use.
- Lightweight - Weighing only 16 ounces, the Smith & Wesson Model 36 is lightweight and comfortable to carry and use.
- Great for concealed carry - The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is small and slim enough to often be carried concealed and is easy to unholster.
Cons:
- Low capacity - Magazine capacity for the Smith & Wesson Model 36 is limited to only 5 rounds, making it too low for some shooters.
- Limited selection of ammunition - The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is chambered for the .38 Special round, which limits the ammunition choices available.
- Expensive relative to other revolvers - The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is higher priced than many other revolvers of similar design and caliber.
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy the Smith & Wesson Model 36 are people who are of legal age and have gone through the necessary safety training and registration procedures to own a firearm. This weapon is designed for personal protection, concealed carry, and target shooting.
Those who shouldn't buy the Smith & Wesson Model 36 are those who are underage, have not gone through the proper training and registration to own a firearm, or are not legally qualified to own and/or use a handgun. The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is not a toy, and should not be used in hazardous or unsafe conditions.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Capacity | Barrel Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smith & Wesson Model 36 | .38 Special | 5 Rounds | 1.875" |
| Ruger LCR | .38 Special | 5 Rounds | 1.875" |
| Chiappa Rhino | .357 Magnum | 6 Rounds | 2" |
| Ruger LCRx | .38 Special | 8 Rounds | 2.125" |
| Taurus Model 85 | .38 Special | 5 Rounds | 2" |
Features / Specs
• Revolver
• Caliber: .38 Special
• Capacity: 5 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 1.875"
• Overall Length: 6.3"
• Weight: 25.2 oz.
• Sights: Fixed
• Frame Material: Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel
• Grip Material: Wooden
Popular Accessories
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- Holsters – Carried on the belt or inside the waistband to facilitate the safe and secure carrying of firearms.
- Ammunition – Available in various calibers for shooting and target practice.
- Sights – Improves sight picture and accuracy with adjustable iron sights or modern luminous optics.
- Light/Laser – Attaches to the rail for improved target identification or accuracy in low-light environments.
- Grips – Select from various sizes and textures of grips to improve the feel and look of the firearm.
- Barrel Replacements – Choose from a variety of barrel length and type to fit your style of shooting and upgrade the performance of the firearm.
- Cleaning Supplies – Essential for periodic firearm maintenance.
- Magazine Grabbers – Increase safety and speed of magazine reloads.
Accuracy
The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is lauded for its dependability, accuracy, and authentic Smith & Wesson craftsmanship. This revolver is capable of making tight groups even when firing at extended distances. Across distances up to fifteen yards the Model 36 can easily make tight two-inch or smaller groups. Targets at fifteen yards may require a longer barrel design and a steady hand, but the gun is still capable of impressive accuracy. In addition, accuracy is improved by the use of adjustable sights that can be adjusted with the gun's included hex-head screwdriver. The Smith & Wesson Model 36 is also well known for its reliability. This revolver is dependable enough to use for home defense and for display. It is one of the most reliable and accurate revolvers in its class, and any shooter can be assured of a successful outing when using this classic revolver.
