Smith & Wesson Model 36 Field Ethos

Introduced at the first of the year, this new Lipsey’s Exclusive is from Smith & Wesson; built on the J-frame platform, it is being called the Model 36 Field Ethos Tropical. This is a collaborative effort between Lipsey’s and the outdoors media and social organization Field Ethos. A variation on the Chief’s Special which debuted in 1950, it has a 5-shot cylinder that’s rated for .38 Special +P cartridges. Barrel length is 1.88 inches, overall length is 6.94 inches and it has an empty weight of 19.5 oz. Notable features include a bobbed hammer with a DAO action, gold bead front sight, U-notch fixed rear sight, plus an aesthetically pleasing polished blue finish and smooth walnut Boot Grips from Tyler Gun Works. During the T&E some 120 round of standard pressure and +P .38 Special ammunition was used from five different manufacturers. From the bench at 10 yards, the best 35-shot group measured 1.81 inches. A 20-round Baseline Assessment Drill was also performed to evaluate reliability. The MSRP is $1099.00 street prices right now run $1049.99.