Item:
ONJR23HA012

Original U.S. Antique Smith & Wesson Blued Model 1 3rd Issue Revolver in .22 Short - Serial 62163

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. The Smith & Wesson Model 1 was the first firearm manufactured by Smith & Wesson, with production spanning the years 1857 through 1882. It was the first commercially successful revolver to use rimfire cartridges instead of loose powder, musket ball, and percussion caps. It is a single-action, tip-up revolver holding seven .22 Short black powder cartridges. During the production run it was issued 3 times, with significant changes to each revision.

The Model 1, 3rd Issue represented a substantial redesign for the Model 1, with a fluted cylinder, a round barrel and a rounded "bird's head" style grip. Finishes included full nickel plating, full blued steel, and a "half plate" nickel/blue combo, and there were two barrel lengths offered by the factory. Variants include the "square" and "triangular" top strap design that changed around serial number 9,500. The 3rd Issue guns were produced from 1868 through 1882 with serial numbers from 1 through approximately 131,000

This example is fully blued version, though the finish has faded in the usual wear areas over the years. The sides of the action and under the barrel rib still show strong original bluing, while the sides of the barrel, cylinder, trigger area, and grip frame are faded to a light gray patina. These early Smith & Wesson designs are loaded by actually unhooking the bottom of the barrel so it could swivel upwards allowing the entire cylinder to be removed in order to reload. Fitted with spur trigger, these were an extremely convenient little multi shot revolver ideal for a lady or gambler. Fully marked along the top of the barrel:-

✠ SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. PAT.APR.3.55 JULY.5.59 DEC.18.60 ✠

The revolver bears serial number 81232 on the bottom of the grip and on the inside of the right grip scale. This would probably put production at around 1877-78. This number is found on the bottom of the grip, as well as on the inside of the right grip scale. There is also assembly number H 7 on the grip frame, barrel, and cylinder. That makes this a very desirable "ALL MATCHING" example, with no major parts swapped out over the years!

The grips are in excellent condition, and look to be made from American Black Walnut, a legendary hardwood used for stocks, grips, and many other uses. They have a lovely color, and still retain almost all of the original "Piano Varnish" finish on the exterior. The interiors look nearly new. The revolver action functions perfectly, with accurate indexing, a firm cylinder lockup, and crisp dry fire.

A great example of an iconic early revolver design from the legendary Smith & Wesson, ready to display!

Specifications: 

Years of Manufacture: 1868 - 1882
Caliber: .22 Short Blackpowder
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Blackpowder Cartridge
Barrel Length: 3 1/8 inches
Overall Length: 6 1/2 inches
Action: Exposed Hammer
Feed System: 7 Shot Revolver

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