POTD: S&W Model 50 Chief’s Special Target – 568 Made

Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have a Smith & Wesson Model 50 Chief’s Special Target, one of 568 manufactured in the range 930J45-936J19. The factory letter states this shipped March 27, 1973 and confirms the Model 50 was manufactured as special orders with no standard model configuration.

The Model 50 combined the Chief’s Special’s compact 2-inch barrel J-frame with target sights and features. This created an unusual combination – a pocket-sized revolver with precision target shooting capability. The concept appealed to a narrow market of shooters wanting both concealability and target accuracy.

Smith & Wesson typically standardized configurations for mass production efficiency. The Model 50’s special order-only status meant customers could specify features, leading to variations across the 568 produced. This flexibility came at higher cost and longer delivery times. The .38 Special chambering with 2-inch barrel provided adequate defensive power in an extremely compact package. Adding target sights transformed the Chief’s Special from a pure defensive gun into something suitable for both concealed carry and recreational target shooting.

Limited production of 568 units over the model’s lifespan indicates modest demand. Most shooters wanting target features chose larger frames like the K-38 or Model 14 with longer barrels. Those wanting compact carry guns accepted the Chief’s Special’s basic sights. The Model 50 served the overlap between these markets. The special order nature and low production make Model 50 revolvers uncommon finds today, particularly in excellent condition with original finish.

Most of our POTDs utilize images from our friends at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse their current auctions – who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!

“Rare and Desirable Smith & Wesson Model 50 Chief’s Special Target Double Action Revolver with Factory Letter.” Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/5027/1047/rare-and-desirable-sw-model-50-chiefs-special-target-revolver. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.

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