S&W model 36 with adjustable sights
 

Has anyone ever about putting adjustable sights on a S&W model 36? I seem to remember reading about this but have CRS and for the life of me cannot seem to find the information. This might be a pie in the sky thing. But would like to explore this option if doable. Thanks, Frank

There are a few thousand 2 and 3" factory Chiefs Special Targets (also known as the model 50, some stamped model 36) floating around, and in the 1980s there was a run of 3" barrel full-lug model 36s Targets made. Also, there are 2" model 60 (stainless CS) Targets. Uncommon but findable, and be prepared to pay a premium.

I never understood why someone would want a 2" or 3" .38 Special J-Frame (very concealable hideout gun) with adjustable sights. To me, a model 36, 37, 60 ,etc. is a self defense "belly gun" that is carried concealed. While I do believe in lots of practice with the weapon one is carrying, I also believe it should be practiced with at the realistic distances it will be used at, which more than likely is less than 10 feet. At 10 feet, what is the point of having an adjustable sight that has a greater chance of getting caught on a piece of clothing, or thrown off from daily carry?

I own many J-Frame 38's and at a distance of 10 feet they are as accurate as one would ever need. Yes, at 50 feet they may shoot 3 or 4 inches off, but who cares? If you are going to go target shooting at 50 feet, then a Model 15, 14, 19, 66, etc is more in order for that task. In fact the ONLY J-Frame revolver I could see with an adjustable sight is the model 63 (.22 LR) with a 4 inch barrel. At least one can use that for squirrel or crow hunting and the adjustable sights would come in handy there.

The reason that S&W did not make a whole lot of these little revolvers with adjustable sights is that there is really no reason or purpose for them, other than being a "curio" or collectible.

There........I've had my rant and I feel better. Hope everybody had a wonderful and joyous Thanksgiving!

Regards,
chief38

Chief38;

All good points. As far as using a J frame for concealed carry only, I can see someone with smaller hands who wants to shoot different loads in their gun, or who essentially wants a centerfire Kit Gun, wanting a CS Target. Bottom line is the factory will make anything when they think there is a demand - think 1 3/4" barrel N frame .45s :) .

I would tend to agree with all of you regarding the 10' distance at which the 36 would be effective. However our pistol range has its first targets set up at 20yds. And would like to do some shooting at the 10' distance. Lately due to the amount of pistol shooters this ain't gonna happen. I'm not the best shooter in the world but would like to see what the little sucker can do. That was my reason for posting that question. It do hey hot and humid here in louisiana and a few of my friends that CCW carry the model 36 in their jean pockets. If I wanted to shoot further I have a colt trooper in 357 mag, 624 44 special, or a redhawk in 44mag. Heck the last time I shot my walther pp in 32acp at 10' all shots could be covered by a pack of smokes. Thanks, Frank

Years ago, I read an article about the Model 50. It was called the "Chief's Special Target". The author opined -- and I think I agree -- that part of the reason it never sold big was the name. He believed it should have been called something like the "Trail Masterpiece", because that is it's true niche, as a "large-caliber" Kit Gun. I have kept an eye out for one ever since, but never seen one "in person". A J-frame has more than enough accuracy for longer ranges, given decent sight and grips, and I think it would be great as a trail companion.

20 years ago, my department's qualification included shooting at 25 yards. They made no accomodation for the 2 inch 5 shooters, you had the same time to get off 6, 12 or 18 shots as did the sixshooters. I had no trouble qualifying my Model 60, and later my Model 642, and often shot 100%. The little guns are capable of very good accuracy, their small sights, short sight radius, small grips and light weight can make them difficult without practice.

The benefit of the adustables isn't just to zero the gun with the ammo you are using. They also give a larger, blockier sight picture that is much easier to pick up with speed.

About the only time adjustable sights on a 2 inch J frame would have been a problem for me would have been pants pocket carry, and even then, the hammer spur would be far more likely to catch and snag. Using any kind of belt, shoulder or ankle holster, I can't see the sights being a problem.

If you like them, a very good gunsmith can mill the topstrap of a Cheifs Special for the Kit Gun rear sight. Keep in mind, though, that the new front sight will have to be quite a bit taller, as the sighting plane of the adjustable rear sight is taller.