Smith & Wesson S&W Model 37 Airweight .38 Spl 2″ Nickel Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1225
LSB#: 210923SS32
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 37 Chiefs Special Airweight
Serial Number: J331921
Year of Manufacture: 1975-1976
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action 5-Shot Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right side is marked “AIRWEIGHT / 38 SPL. CTG.”. The left side of the frame is marked with the S&W logo. The crane cutout is marked “MOD.37”. The crane and sides of the grip frame are marked with inspection marks. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line marcas registradas address. The butt is marked with the serial number. The barrel flat and rear face of the cylinder marked “N”. The interior of the right grip panel is matched and stamped “331921”.
Barrel Length: 2” Pinned
Sights / Optics: This revolver has a square notched grooved frame and a serrated ramp front sight integral to the rib on its pinned barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered magna stocks with S&W medallions. There are a few scattered minor compressions and a few tiny marks through the finish. There is some finish loss and thinning on the bottom faces. There is light handling wear. The checkering is strong. Overall the grips are in Fine Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel with Alloy Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are some minor scuffs, the most noticeable scuffs are on the cylinder. The nickel parts have some light swirl marks and draglines. There are a few little cloudy spots on the nickel. There is a small spot of oxidation on the right side of the trigger. There is a light turn line on the cylinder. The screwheads are sharp to lightly worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double-action trigger is smooth, the single-action is crisp. The cylinder lockup produces very light play on all five chambers. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a gray Smith & Wesson box with paperwork including the manual, brush, rod, and slotted rod attachment. The box has had a matching serial number written on the original serial number.
Our Assessment: This model is the alloy frame version of the J Frame Model 36. Introduced in 1951, this is one of the first quality revolvers to take advantage of the advances in materials of the mid 20th century. Despite its lightweight, it still benefits from the quality crafstmanship of Smith & Wesson. This one is a nickel model and looks sharp, it will make a great addition to a Smith & Wesson collection in its high condition. While similar revolvers are available in current production, they won’t have the old-school character and quality of this 60s vintage Smith. Please see our photos and good luck!