The S&W Model 37

[Diamondback]

Recently poking around the "used" section of a few pawn shops I spied two S&W model 37 .38 Special J frame Airweights. One a typical snub nose, the other has a 3 inch barrel. Both are in fine condition, the 3 inch revolver having never been fired.I made a pitch for both with cash, and today I claimed ownership. They are very light weight....the 37 with the 3 inch barrel deceptively so becauce...well the extra barrel legenth. I will probably carry them in the warmer months with the new Cor-bon. 110gr. DPX ( if they shoot well in thse revolvers ) or just the standard 110gr. Winchester Silvertip or the extinct Fed. 125gr. Nyclads I got from AMMOMAN. Any general comment on the Model 37 and your experience ? ALSO......I wonder when they were manufactured. Anyone who might be able to help ? Many thanks !
-2" Model 37 pinned barrel: #229J78
-3" model 37 pinned barrel: #J947926

-regards

 

[Model520Fan]

2" - 1971-2
3" - 1982

Have a 37 myself - nickel 2" SB. I certainly like them, particularly the square butt version, with a Tyler T-grip.

I do not use +P in them, because I tried it once and the cylinder skipped, like a 29 before the -3 will do on very heavy loads.

 

[Ala Dan]

The S&W model 37 is an excellent weapon. You made a wise choice,
my friend. Enjoy~

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[Dienekes]

Bought one for my wife circa 1976. "Borrowed" it for a year or so during which time I put how many--too many--+P+ 110 gr Treasury loads through it. It went out of time and needed an overhaul at S&W to fix it. Since that time practice loads have always been w/c level and carry loads the 158 gr +P SWC. So other than my abuse of the gun it has been a very good piece for almost 30 years now. The blue is worn and it has well over 1000 rounds through it, and is a nice smooth little piece. I dehorned it early on which makes it a better carry piece.

When S&W brought back the Centennial (M442) I quit borrowing the M37.

BTW the 3" barrel makes a nice little gun.