I recently was offered a couple guns. This gentlemans father has recently passed and he was left some guns. Among them were two S&W revolvers. One being a Model 10-5 from the late 60's with the serial # starting with D. The other being a Model 36 from the early 80's with the serial # Starting with AEJ. Unfortunately for me he only wants to sell one but he doesn't care which. He is offering me whichever one for only $225. I find this to be a great price despite my limited knowledge.

My question is...what one should i buy! lol

Both are in pristine condition and have only been fired a few times (I was told). I realize my decision is based on what i think i might use it for. I will mainly use it for target use and just overall fun. I don't have the need for a carry gun so all signs point to the model 10-5, however i am still having a hard time because i love them both so much. The Model 10-5 certainly shoots more comfortable but that damn 36 looks so awesome!

What would you all do? I guess i am wondering if they are the same price anyways...what one is more valuable?

thanks

If the model 10 suits your needs better, I'd go for that. The model 36 may be worth $50 more, but if you take one try to get dibs on the second one should your friend decide to sell that one too. Both of those for $450 would be a steal.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Congratulations. At that price you can't go wrong with either of them. From your description and note about the range, it sounds like the 10-5 is a 4" barrel, which will certainly be better to shoot at the range and keep in the home. If it is a 2", definitely go for the 10-5!

If it was me making the decision, I would buy the model 10. The model 36 is not as good a shooter. I have both and believe me the model 10 is heads and shoulders better for shooting than a model 36.
Good luck with your decision.
Regards,
Howard

I forgot to mention barrel measurment! Its definitely a 2 inch barrel on the model 10-5. Does this make it more rare or more valuable?

2" model 10s are probably the least common length, so it is probably equal in value to the model 36. As roaddog mentioned, it will be easier to shoot than the 36.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

I have both and the model 10 is easier to shoot. The model 10 was an everyday LEO carry / primary weapon. The Chief's Special model 36 was a concealed (BUG) "Back up gun". (That what I understand as I am not a LEO) MY pre 36 in a J frame is harder to control and doesn't have as good of groupings my model 10.
I would buy the model 10.

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John 1:17
NRA Life Benefactor

My issued weapon during part of my LEO career was a 2" M10. Buy it and you'll never regret it.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

I own both. I think nice old 36's are harder to find and it's something you will tend to carry a lot more. I have a very nice Model 64 2", but it tends to be a house gun because of the size and weight.

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Loyalty Above All.. but Honor

Get the #10

Real tough choice. I'll go with the flow, get the 10!

I would want both but I would buy the model 10 first.

The 10 will be easier to shoot accurately.

That said, I have a 36 on my hip as I type this.

Model 10 without a doubt.

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Wheel guns are real guns too.

I have a 15 which is a 10 with adjustable sights and a 36 so judging by your criteria I'd get the 10. Both are easy to find.

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LIVE FROM THE DAWGHOUSE

any boxes,etc,go for the 10.

I would go with the model 10 also and I have a Model pre 36 snub nose and a Model 64 no dash snub nose. My shortest 10-5 is a 4 inch and I would like a 2 inch for sure.

I have decided on the Model 10-5 2 inch. I just got back from the range and it is by far much easier and more comfortable to shoot. That is not to say that i did not like the model 36 because i did, but only second to the model 10-5. Great gun! No boxes or any extras but i feel based on the pristine condition that $225 is a fair price...

thanks for all the replys, i really appreciate it. This is my first Smith and Wesson and while i am sure in time there will be many S&W's that come and go through my hands, this one will always be my first and i will never let it go. My cold dead hands....lol

Kidtwist,
Excellent choice and congrats again. Great price and will last a lifetime.
Now since you are hooked, you can start looking for your next one.

Congratulations on your acquisition! I'm sure you'll enjoy shooting that Model 10.

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But then, what do I know?

You didnt mention if the Model 10 snub was a round butt or a square butt.

Great Decision ! Fair Price and Practice, Practice and more Practice.........
Keep it loaded with quality ammo, and remember if you need to protect yourself with it, "A dead man cannot testify against you in court"........

Just my .02 cents, but if the Chief's Special is still available for the price you stated, GRAB IT before you regret it. At that price you won't loose even if you decide to sell it down the road. Just sayin'..............

Chief38

KidTwist,
Good advice from chief38, if you can get both.

And everyone likes pictures!