Smith & Wesson Model 36 Replica Chiefs Special “Flat Latch” Snubnose Revolver & Silencer

Smith & Wesson Model 36 Replica Chiefs Special “Flat Latch” Snubnose Revolver & Silencer

This vintage, full size, well made, zinc alloy replica of the popular snubnose features the flat cylinder release latch used by S&W from 1950 to 1966.  It is excellent dimensionally, and is probably 1970s Japanese manufacture.  Japanese replicas dominated the market at that time and were far more accurately rendered than current producers.  It is marked on the right side of the frame “MODEL SW/4 MADE BY INT” and  “NO F 0213” on the left, and  “CHIEFS SPECIAL” on the barrel.

 The revolver cylinder swings out when the release is pushed forward and the ejector can be pushed out.  It appears to be functional in double action mode, but not in single action.  I am not sure if it ever had that capability.  Unfortunately, the ends of the trigger and  hammer spur are broken off.  One grip medallion is also missing from the black plastic grip on the right side.  This revolver’s hammer is capable of striking a cartridge loaded in the chamber and the gun appears to be vented to fire some sort of proprietary blank cartridge, but it will not chamber live ammunition.  Also included is the fake silencer that can be fitted into the muzzle. 

This would be well worth repairing, but as is, it would be great where a highly realistic looking S&W Chiefs Special is needed for theatrical work.