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 Length165 mm (6.50")
Barrel Length51 mm (2.01")
Height117 mm (4.61")
Width33 mm (1.30")
Firing MechanismDouble Action Single Action
Trigger TypeDouble Action Single Action
Trigger Pull20 N (4.5 lbf)
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeRotary
Muzzle Velocity260 m/s (853 fps)
Muzzle Energy273 J (201 ft·lbf)
Effective Range30 m (33 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist476 mm (18.74")
Number of Grooves5
Frame MaterialAluminum Alloy
Barrel MaterialSteel
FinishBlue

Calibers

Features

Base model

Smith-Wesson-36

Service history

Operators

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.