Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional example of Smith & Wesson's "32 Double Action" Fourth Model revolver, first introduced in 1883. A popular design, approximately 239,600 of this model were made between 1883 and 1909. This example dates from around 1888, and displays top of the line factory appointments. It is fully factory scroll engraved, nickel plated, and fitted with monogrammed mother of pearl grips.

We are told that the L.W. on the grips is for Medal of Honor Winner LEONARD WOOD, which was awarded in 1898 for his actions during the Geronimo Campaign in 1886. He was a friend of Teddy Roosevelt and became Commander of the Rough Riders. He was at the attack on San Juan Hill in Cuba during the Spanish American War. He later became ARMY CHIEF OF STAFF in 1910 and Governor of the Philippines from 1921 until his death in 1927. Today Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri bears his name.

The revolver's serial number is 100301, which is visible on the bottom of the grip, on the back of the cylinder, on the barrel latch, and on the barrel frame. There is even a penciled "100301" on the inside of the pearl grips, showing that these were original factory grips. We would assume the L W monogram is also factory.

The markings on the top of the barrel rib are still fully legible:

 Mechanically, the action is smooth, with a good cylinder lock up, nice indexing, and a crisp dry fire. The revolver breaks open correctly, with the ejector presenting and then retracting as it should. We tested cycling in both single and double action, and noted no faults. The bore shows clear rifling, with just a bit of past oxidation. The nickel plated finish has some wear in areas, as shown. The pearl grips are just great, with no damage or chips we can see.

A most attractive revolver, carried for personal protection, with the possibility of a great provenance. Much research needed. Ready to add to your collection and display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1888
Caliber: .32 Smith & Wesson
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Overall Length: 5 1/2 inches
Action: Single / Double Action
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to posses, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

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