Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 36 Field Ethos
Smith & Wesson · Revolver · Limited Production · 2026
Also known as: Model 36 Field Ethos, PC Model 36 Field Ethos, Field Ethos Model 36 Tropical
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 36 Field Ethos is a 2026 Lipsey's-exclusive, Performance Center-tuned variant of the classic five-shot J-frame Model 36 revolver chambered in .38 Special +P. Built on the Classic no-internal-lock frame, it carries a 1.88-inch blued carbon-steel barrel and a Performance Center action job for a smooth, consistent double-action-only trigger. The hammer is bobbed for snag-free concealed carry, and the gun ships with premium Tyler Gunworks walnut stocks, a fixed gold-bead front sight, and an integral notch-in-frame rear sight. A Field Ethos trademark is engraved on the side plate as part of the collaboration. This 'Tropical' edition was developed jointly by Smith & Wesson, the Field Ethos brand, and distributor Lipsey's.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 553 g (19.5 oz) |
| Barrel Length | 48 mm (1.89") |
| Action Type | Double Action Only |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 228 m/s (748 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 210 J (155 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 15 m (16 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 476 mm (18.74") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Carbon Steel |
| Barrel Material | Carbon Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .38 Special · primary — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, .38 Special +P, 9.1x29mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Revolver Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block Safety, Cylinder Latch
- Features: J Frame, Five Shot Cylinder, Performance Center Action Job, Double Action Only, Bobbed Hammer, Snub Nose Barrel, Gold Bead Front Sight, Integral Notch Rear Sight, Tyler Gunworks Walnut Grips, Field Ethos Engraving, No Internal Lock
Base model
Production
Production years: 2026-present
Lipsey's exclusive Performance Center collaboration with the Field Ethos brand
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
All-steel weight is approximately 19.5 oz (553 g). MSRP is approximately $1,099-$1,100. Double-action-only with a bobbed hammer. Muzzle velocity/energy figures are typical .38 Special performance from the 1.88-inch J-frame barrel and are carried from the base Model 36. Lipsey's exclusive distribution.
Background
For 2026 the original 1950 Chiefs Special got a lifestyle-brand makeover: Smith & Wesson's Performance Center teamed with the Field Ethos publication and distributor Lipsey's on a bobbed-hammer, DAO 'Tropical' Model 36 wearing Tyler Gunworks walnut and a Field Ethos-engraved side plate - a pocket revolver pitched as much as an heirloom as a carry gun.