Item:
ONAC23SS074

Original U.S. Smith & Wesson Nickel Plated Model 1 1/2 3rd Issue Single Action Revolver in .32 S&W - Matching Serial 87423

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an American classic, first introduced in 1865 and produced continuously until 1892. The Smith & Wesson Model 1 1/2 was Smith & Wesson's second .32 caliber revolver, intended to combine the small size and convenience of the .22 caliber Model 1 with the larger caliber of the 6-shot "belt sized" Model 2, which was introduced in 1860. Chambered in .32 cal, its cylinder held 5 shots. It was produced in three varieties, termed "issues" by S&W, with total production exceeding 223,000.

The First Issue Model 1 1/2 had an non-fluted cylinder and a flat bottomed "square" grip, and was chambered for .32 rimfire ammunition, and approximately 26,000 were produced. The Second Issue had a fluted cylinder and barrel, and a more comfortable and attractive rounded "bird's head" style grip. This version saw production of around 100,000.

The Third Issue was quite a departure from the previous two, and is actually officially termed the "Model No. 1 1/2 Single Action Revolver". Unlike the first two issues, this was a top-break design, consistent with the design of the Safety Hammerless or S&W .38 Single Action. It can be readily distinguished from the first two issues by the large hinge in the front of the frame below the barrel, and the lack of an ejector rod. The grip is a lovely rounded "bird's head" style, and is similar in appearance to that on the 2nd Issue. Most importantly, this revolver marked the debut of the .32 S&W centerfire cartridge.

This example bears matching serial numbers, with 87423 clearly marked on the cylinder, top latch, barrel (by the latch), and on the bottom of the grip. That makes this a very desirable "ALL MATCHING" example, with no parts swapped out over the years! It still bears the original "gutta percha" composite checkered grips, which bear the Smith & Wesson "SW" monogram at the top, with strong checkering. There is a glued repair at the bottom of the right grip scale at the bottom.

The revolver really is in nice condition, with most of the original nickel plating retained, and all of the markings are still clearly legible, small as they are. The top of the barrel strap has the numerous patent dates, many of which are the same patents utilized on other Smith & Wesson revolvers:

SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JAN.17 & 24.65
JULY 11. 65 AUG. 24. 69 FEB. 20 1877. REISSUE JULY 25. 1871

It is also marked over the cylinder with additional patent dates:

PAT'D APR. 20. 75
DEC. 18 1877

The revolver cycles great, with a smooth action, correct indexing, and a crisp dry fire. The bore is in very good condition, showing a partly bright finish with clear lands and grooves. There is some wear, as well as powder fouling and oxidation near the cylinder end of the barrel. The revolver breaks open correctly, with the ejector presenting correctly and snapping back when the action is opened all the way.

These small pistols were a favorite of Gamblers and Ladies of the Night: these little revolvers saved a lot of souls no doubt.

ANTIQUE and ready to display, from the old West.

Specifications: 

Years of Manufacture: circa 1880
Caliber: .32 S&W
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Blackpowder Cartridge
Barrel Length: 3 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: 5 Shot Revolver

  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is not available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

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