I am trying to decide between a S&W 36 (carbon steel frame and cylinder) and a S&W 60 (all stainless steel). I intend shoot the revolver of choice alot so I want to know which type of material is more durable.

They will wear about the same. If you are going to carry the guns in the summer it is SS hands down.
Ed

What Rapier said.

Sweat and blood really does a number on carbon steel. SS is better with those two things.

thx.

Stainless steel

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My vote is for Blue steel & wood, so I guess I'm voting for carbon steel.
Joe-R

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Joe R
A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” Proverbs 22:3

Another vote for blue steel. To me stainless steel is unattractive and it also feels gritty and less smooth than blue steel in the average revolver. Blue steel is less prone to rust than most think if any sort of basic care is given.

I've owned this Smith & Wesson Model 10 Heavy Barrel for 36 years come December. I bought it for myself as a Christmas present; my first handgun. It's seen far more heavy use under adverse conditions than most lawmens' side arms and has fired more rounds. During hunting season it has always gone along, including times when the weather was inclement. I like duck hunting and it's been dunked in the lake on more than one occasion. It doesn't rust because I take care of it, mostly in the form of a simple wipe-down after a day's carry and it receives a cleaning after each firing use.

Only an opinion but a blue finish, even with honest wear, is more appealing than the sickly whitish gray of stainless steel. If someone wants to neglect a gun then perhaps stainless steel is appropriate.