Q's Re: M32-1 vs M36 Should I buy the gun?

[Seamus O'Caiside]

Am I the only person who gets confused by S&W model numbers? Sometimes even the 4th ed. of the S&W Standard Catalog just makes things more confusing for me!

OK. here's the story. About 50 years ago I bought my wife an almost-new M32-1 2" .38S&W. J Frame. She is not interested in shooting, but I got her to practice an average of one shot a year for 50 years. It is still like new. She never had to use it (thank the Lord) but there were times when having it made her feel safer. She can't use it now - handicapped by a stroke.

I recently decided I should start carrying for self-defense, and my 6" M28 ,357Mag is a bit much for a concealed gun, so I decided to use the M32 .38S&W loaded with Buffalo Bore sooper-dooper ammo. BB claim it is equivalent to a light .38 spec. load, but it is still a light load and I would rather have a .38 spec gun. Also, I already have about 5000 rounds of .38spec for practice with the .357, and the BB stuff must be made of pure gold!

So I glanced at the internet, and lo and behold I found a gun that looks like an exact duplicate of the M32, but in .38spec! It is a M36 no dash, not marked Chief's Special, J SN prefix, pinned barrel. good condition, but I would probably have to pay near $600 for it. The pictures make the M36 look exactly like the M32-1 except for the slightly longer cylinder.

So, should I buy it? I do love that M32-1 except for the caliber. Will the M36 duplicate the M32-1? I am not rich, but I can afford it and I want it!

Second question: The S&W web site describes all their .38s as ".38 S&W Special +P". The gun I am considering is not marked +P, but it is in excellent condition, and I think it would be safe with +P ammo. What do you think about that?

Thanks for the advice. This site (and all you guys) are great!

 

[Cal44]

Both would be acceptable for self defense. You say you can afford the 36 and want it, so I'd say go ahead and buy the 36.

You need to practice quite a bit with a j frame snub to get good with it.

The 38 special uses low cost and much more available ammo.

Limited use of 38 special +p is ok in a 36. You will probably want to do most of your practice with standard 38 special ammo. Saves your hand.

The m32 is a good backup for the m36 for home defense or carry.

 

[rincar]

I to have a Model 36 and a Model 32. The model 36 is a great revolver. With standard 38 Special loads the recoil is Quite manageable. Although the 38 special plus p loads generate more recoil and noise along with muzzle flash. So I carry 38 special loaded with plus p loads in the revolver for concealed carry duty and practice with standard 38 special loads. The model 32 generates almost no recoil, noise or muzzle flash. Its almost like shooting a 22 revolver. I would feel confrontable carrying either if I could shoot both with the same accuracy

 

[murphydog]

This is a common question in reverse - usually someone knows about the model 36 but runs into a model 32 and asks if it is different. The BB defense load for .38 S & W is a good choice and roughly equivalent to a good .38 Special.

Gun prices are a bit high now historically, but if the model 36 you want will not be a financial stretch for you why not? If you wait, or do a bit more shopping, I would guess you can find a nice example for $100-150 less. Good luck in your decision.

 

[Seamus O'Caiside]

I have decided not to buy it!

All of the guys who responded gave me good information and advice, and I appreciate it. I have decided the gun I have is all I need, so I am not going to bid on the M36.

Here is the auction on the M36. It is exactly the same as my (my wife's) M32 except for the longer cylinder for the longer cartridge. *BEAUTIFUL* NICKEL FINISH S&W / Smith & Wesson Model 36 - .38 special - Revolvers at GunBroker.com : 876243435

EDIT!!! The auction is now closed. Im sorry I made the mistake of posting the link a few minutes before it closed.

THANKS!!!!

 

[sigp220.45]

I think keeping what you have is a wise choice. I have a Terrier, which is a little earlier and a tiny bit smaller (I-frame) than your Model 32. I carry it once in a while, with plain old 145 grain lead round nose ammo from PPU. It is a great little gun.