Detective Sergeant Phil Cerreta (Paul Sorvino) and Detective Mike Logan (Chris Noth) are armed with Smith & Wesson Model 36 revolvers. Captain Donald Cragen (Dann Florek) appears to be armed with one as well, but never draws it.
Smith & Wesson Model 10s are carried by the NYPD Officers in the initial seasons of the series. The Smith and Wesson Model 10 was an authorized weapon for all NYPD officers who had entered onto the job on or prior to 1986.
The murder weapon in "Trust" (S02E15) is a Ruger Speed Six. It is described, however, by the ballistics expert as a Ruger Security Six, with "custom Pachmayr grip, modified hammer and trigger." Since the owner is described as a target shooter, a Security Six, which has adjustable sights, would make more sense than a Speed Six, which only has fixed sights.
Forensics Tech Arlene Shrier (Christine Farrell) demonstrates the difference between single action and double action for the detectives (and the audience) with a H&R Model 777 Super Sportsman in "Trust" (S02E15). It's a top-break, single action revolver, with target sights.
A nickel-plated or stainless Tanfoglio Titan II is the murder weapon in "Intolerance" (S02E20). It is described by ballistics as a "Tanfoglio Titan .380."
Smith & Wesson Model 64's are seen in various episodes. The S&W Model 64 was modified to meet NYPD requirements and designated as the Model NY-1 by the NYPD and was the authorized issued revolver for all officers of the NYPD who entered on to "the Job" after 1986 until the department stopped issuing revolvers and began issuing semi-automatic 9mm pistols starting around 1992.
