Smith & Wesson Model 37
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 1952
Also known as: Airweight Chief's Special
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 37 is a compact revolver built on Smith & Wesson's J-frame, introduced in 1952. Chambered in .38 Special with a 5-round cylinder. Featuring an aluminum alloy frame, this revolver achieves a notably lightweight package suited for everyday carry. The 2.0-inch barrel provides maximum concealment in a snubnose configuration, making this an ideal backup or deep concealment weapon. Weighing just 425g (15.0 oz) empty, this ultra-lightweight revolver is designed for comfortable all-day carry, though the reduced weight means increased felt recoil with full-power loads. Smith & Wesson has been producing J-frame revolvers for over seven decades, continuously refining the platform with improved metallurgy, ergonomics, and manufacturing techniques while maintaining the fundamental reliability and accuracy that has made their double-action revolvers the benchmark against which all others are measured.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 425 g (15.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 51 mm (2.01") |
| Height | 117 mm (4.61") |
| Width | 33 mm (1.30") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 20 N (4.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 260 m/s (853 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 273 J (201 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 30 m (33 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 476 mm (18.74") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blue |
Calibers
- .38 Special · primary — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, 9x29mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar
- Features: J Frame, Fixed Sights, Swing Out Cylinder, Airweight, Aluminum Frame
Base model
Service history
Operators
- Various police departments
Production
Production years: 1952-present
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
Airweight Chief's Special. Aluminum alloy frame reduces weight to ~15 oz.
Background
The Airweight was revolutionary in offering a truly lightweight carry revolver without compromising power.