S&W J-frame models in the Chief’s Special series include the following models: All the Chief’s Special series are/were equipped with an external hammer, so they could be fired in double action or single action model and featured a 5 shot capacity. The Chief’s Special series were predominately manufactured with a 1 7/8” or 2” barrel, although a few of the series, such as the Model 60, were also available in a 3” version. As the Model 36 was really designed for plainclothes policemen, the name chosen as “.38 Chiefs Special”. For the most part, S&W offers the J frame series in 3 series, and those are: S&W Chief’s SpecialĪlthough originally called the S&W Model 36, the Chief’s Special series received its name as it was debuted at the 1950 International Association of Chiefs of Police (commonly known as IACOP) and S&W did a contest to name that model.
They are available in different grips, different materials, and in configurations that are hammered, hammerless, or feature a bobbed hammer. In recent years, there have been many S&W J Frame revolver models introduced to the market with different features and characteristics. It was a huge success for S&W, and went on to sell thousands of units around the country. Since that time, S&W has gone on to manufacture millions of these revolvers based on the J-Frame design, and even produced a special version for women in 1989 which was called the “Ladysmith.” This particular "Ladysmith” model was/is available with either a 2” or 3” barrel, and has special grips on the handle that make it more comfortable for women to hold and shoot. This initial version of the Model 36 was a huge success, and in no time at all, S&W started pumping out newer versions of the model, including a model with a 3” barrel. 38 special rounds, while still fitting comfortably in your hand. The main idea behind this model was to offer a small, concealable revolver that could easily fire the. The first S&W J-Frame revolver with a 2" barrel to hit the market was the Model 36 in 1950. Scroll down to see all the S&W J frame holster models that we carry S&W J Frame History Although they are facing some stiff competition from challengers such as the Ruger LCR and the Taurus Model 85, the J-frame series still remains the dominate brand in that snub nose revolver market. When it comes to short barreled revolvers with a small frame, Smith & Wesson has had the market cornered for years. 38 revolvers, the S&W J frame models are almost always mentioned in that conversation.
When people start taking about snub nosed.