Interested in an older Model 36 or similar for CCW carry. What model and barrel length is best? Like the 3" but does it offer that much more in performance than a 2" or 2.5"? Is the 3" noticeably harder to conceal or fit IWB? I just picked up a new Walther CCP which works well IWB. But want to have a Smith as well. Have a Kimber ultra CDP and a 19-3 and 18-4 and nothing I have shoots and looks better than the classic Smiths. Thanks for the help.

You'll have no problem carrying a 3" J frame. I conceal my 4" model 10 on a daily basis very comfortably

This Galco model lets you carry a speedloader with the revolver:

WALKABOUT FOR REVOLVERS: Galco Carry Lite Series at Galco

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Loyalty Above All.. but Honor

Three inch allows full ejection of spent shells...wish I had one

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Some collect art; I shoot it!

This one works fine for a Combat Magnum (that's a 19-3 in it). It is made by Gunskin. I have a slightly smaller one made by Bianchi that carries my Model 36 Chiefs Special most of the time. There are lots of options out there for IWB carry.

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Jack
SWCA #2475, SWHF #318

Moon clips make extraction even easier.

OP: for stated purposes, strongly recommend a 442 Pro and Alessi Deep Cover holster -- they're a superb simple carry set-up.

I'd look at a model 38, a 40, a 42, or a 49. you'll have to look long and hard for a 3" barrel, the 42 wasn't offerred that way, but you ought to be able to replace the 2" with any 3" .38 J frame barrel.

I prefer the 2" for appendix IWB b/c when I sit down a 3" would poke me in the upper thigh & would not pocket carry as easily.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

I never had a problem concealing my 3" M36-1 in IWB Bianchi holster... OD, when I drove the dispatch desk for a shift (oh, joy!), or plain clothes (more rare). A full belt rig was a PITA in an office chair.


Remember this holster is 30 years old.

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NRA LIFE
Reserve Officer 9yrs