36 vs. 37

hittman77 · Sep 5, 2011

Does the Model 37 seem to be treated like an unappreciated step-child of the Model 36? Seems that the values of 37's are quite a bit less than the 36.

Why do you think that is?

Both are J-Frames designed for concealed carry.
Both are .38 Special.

The 37 should be easier to carry due to reduced weight.

Would people perfer the 36 over 37 because of recoil? If so .... would recoil really matter when it's not a range gun and designed primarily for self-defense?

pred · Sep 5, 2011

I carry a nickle 37 with bone grips every day for the past few years, I take it out on the canoe and in all types of foul weather and it has held up great!
I did the same to a 960 and it started to rust real fast from summer carry, So the 37 is lighter and the outside is Aluminum so no rust.
The 36 is an Icon and will fetch more on a regular basis and no-one had a 36 frame crack under the barrel.
While I have a couple 36s, I only have 1, 37 and it is not for sale and I cant see going to a 36 for daily beater carry gun.
Peter

pwhphd · Sep 5, 2011

I think the lighter model 37 might be attractive to those who actually carry a concealed snubbie. The model 36, while slightly heavier has marginally less recoil, but I don't think most people make much distinction between the two on the basis of felt recoil. The model 36 is an iconic example of Smith & Wesson craftsmanship and will likely always be special, not only with "Chiefs," but with old shooters as well.

chief38 · Sep 6, 2011

I own a M36 & M37 and a M60. The main difference is that I like to carry Buffalo Bore HEAVY 158 Gr. +P SWCHP ammo and the heavier 36 & 60 handle the recoil and pressure better than the M37 does. If you are going to carry standard pressure 38 spl. ammo, than the M37 will be fine.

I have carried the M60 for so long now I don't really notice the extra 5 ounces, especially when wearing a belt scabbard type holster. When I pocket carry, the DeSantis is also very comfortable. The only time I carry the M37 is when I have to wear a suit. The dress belt and trousers of a suit won't support the heavier guns as well, so I use the M37 with standard pressure BB ammo.

Chief38

G.T. Smith · Sep 8, 2011

From what I have read about the two, the big difference is the alloy frame of the 37 being more likely to crack the frame under the barrel with hot loads. Who hell needs hot loads in a gun designed for working close in? I use standard pressure 158 grain LRN in my 37 and no cracks.....yet.
The possibility of a crack may be the reason for the lower average price below the 36. Think, standard pressure!
Peace,
gordon

PH-2 · Sep 8, 2011

This one, M 37, no dash, lives in the safe, so it isn't carried, but it's heft is remarkably light.

Mike

36 vs. 37

hittman77

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pred

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pwhphd

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chief38

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G.T. Smith

US Veteran

PH-2

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