Do we still like 3" J-frames? Model 37

[Teddydog]

As the title says, do "we" still like 3" J-frame revolvers? This is the last of the 3 "binge" revolvers I bought a few weekends ago.

It is a 3" Model 37, or "Chief's Special Lightweight," from the "roaming/floating J" era around 1971/2. It came with the original box and instruction sheet. Condition is pretty good with some usual wear on the high spots. Someone also put some bright orange paint on the front sight ramp. Doesn't look like much firing wear (recoil shield, chamber, bore). Has a Tyler T-grip, too.

When I looked at this when it arrived at my dealer, I was concerned that it might have been refinished, based on the S&W logon on the left side of the frame. See how it is washed out or lightly struck in the middle?

I don't think it is refinished, though. Just a poorly struck logo.

Here posing with its younger brother...a 1975 Model 36.

Any and all comments are welcome!

Rob

 

[bulletslap]

I find the 3 inch J Frame much easier to fire accurately than the 1 7/8 inch version and no harder to conceal.

 

[JWintergreen]

I certainly do! The three inch, fixed sight .38 Special only (or pre J Magnum) guns are my favorite J frames. The three inch, fixed sight model 60 and three inch 640s are also terribly underrated. Your examples are gorgeous.

 

[joe44va]

I like 3" anything:

 

[sjs]

I love my 3" 60. I love snubbys in general, but especially my 3" 60.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Well, yes, as a matter of fact.

Give me a square butt and I'm even happier.

 

[326MOD10]

Can't speak for everyone but I do.

Nice looking 37.

 

[ME94]

Count me in.

 

[Llance]

Three inch 36/37 sure. But since my brother has it I have to settle with my three inch Model 85 Taurus. I'm not unhappy with the Taurus but I'd be happier with the S&W. Actually the Taurus would better serve my brother since he lives in the Great Pacific Northwet. But he is unwilling to sever ties with the 36 so I'll remain happy with my Taurus.

Llance

 

[GerSan69]

Oh, my. I like your 37. Congratulations on a good score!
Let's see: I bought my wife a 36-1 for Christmas a few year ago. She still loves it. And I have a 60-3 and 60-10 3" in my gun gaggle. Wouldn't mind another, maybe a nickel 36-1....?

 

[gwpercle]

I love the J-Frame , 3" AirLite w/ adjustable sights , model 317 , light and sweet shooting !
In a belt holster or pocket ... you don't even know it's there .
Gary

 

[LEO918]

Here's my favorite .38 J-frame with 3" barrel.

 

[redlevel]

I love mine.
Sort of a contrast. Beat up ain’t the proper description for the Model 37 I carry regularly. Drug behind a truck, then stomped on is a better description. Hey, it shoots ever time I pull the trigger, and it cost me all of $175. Shown with custom made duct tape pocket holster.

The Model 36-1 is another story. It is so purty I am reluctant to shoot it. I guess I’ll get around to shooting it some day.

 

[gmarshall99]

Me too! My 37 in Nickel on the bottom, model 10 on the top.

 

[THE PILGRIM]

OK! I’ll play!

 

[Rubone]

My 37 3" is an early flat latch model.

 

[holo]

one of my favorite

 

[tenntucker]

The 2"ers can pretty much go in a pocket easier.

M37-0

 

[BAM-BAM]

Only thing better than my J-frame 3" 60-10..... is a 3" 66 K-frame.

Both make me

 

[Neversink n Klapperthal]

I bought a 2 inch 37 just yesterday, Its been on my belt since