Smith & Wesson S&W Model 1, 2nd Issue, 1st Year, Civil War Era Blue & Silver 3 316 7-Shot, Single Action Revolver, MFD 1860 Antique – .22 Short

Make: Smith & Wesson Model: Number 1, 2nd Issue Tip-Up Serial Number: 14321 Year of Manufacture: According to the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd Edition, Page 66, 117,000 were made between 1860-1868, putting the DOM around 1860, the 1st year of production, though exact serial numbers in this rage are not known for dating 100%. Caliber: .22 Short Rimfire, Black Powder (NOT Modern Smokeless, we do not recommend firing this handgun). Action Type: 7-Shot, Single Action, Tip-Up Revolver Markings: The barrel rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The rear face of the barrel at the breech appears to be marked “1/G”, which does not match the rear of the cylinder, which is marked “H/7”, which is also at the right of the grip frame; the cylinder’s circumference is marked “PATENTED APRIL 3, 1855, JULY 5, 1859 & DEC. 18, 1860”. The butt of the grip frame and inside of the right panel is marked with matching serial number “14321”. Barrel Length: 3 3/16”, Octaongal with Fluted Rib Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half-moon rounded blade, appearing to be German silver, slotted into the fluted rib of the barrel. The top of the cylinder stop leaf has a “V” notch as a rear sight. Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut panels with a varnish finish; the finish appears to be original, with areas of scrape, deeper bruise and scuff wear; the inside of the right panel is serialized to the pistol and is darker than the left panel, which is not serialized (which is correct), the difference in tone and grain leads us to believe it may be a later replacement but both panels are correct to the pistol and have beautiful fit. The panels have nice fit to the grip frame and are free of visible cracks or major damages. The grips rate in about Good overall condition. Type of Finish: Blue Barrel & Cylinder, Silver Plated Brass Frame Finish Originality: The finish is original, however the assembly designation on the rear of the barrel at the breech does not match that of the cylinder or grip frame; the barrel has the correct address on the rib. Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is still defined. There is moderate depth erosion in the bore. Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 40% of its metal finish, seen as naturally tarnished silver plating on the brass frame; there is handling rub wear to bare brass, which has an orange patina, along with some scrapes and dings. The pistol's bluing still remains in light form on the surfaces with stronger presence on the protected areas of the barrel, the surfaces have a dark cocoa patina with pitting on the flanks of the barrel, forward of the cylinder, some deeper scrape handling marks and erosion at the muzzle. The grip panel screw slot is sharp, the others are disfigured. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Good condition. Mechanics: The action functions correctly however the cylinder stop does not provide enough tension to keep the cylinder from spinning unless one’s finger holds the stop down; with this pressure applied, mild side to side and back play is observed. One other issue is the barrel's latch retention spring is either weak or broken, requiring the item to be pulled down by hand in order to secure the barrel to frame, with no observable play once locked up. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson No. 1, 2nd Issue began production at the beginning of the American Civil War and is recorded as having been a popular non-issue sidearm for military members and civilians alike. This example was made in about 1860, the first year of manufacture, in .22 Rimfire Short, with a blue and nickel plated brass frame finish. The pistol evidence of consistent use but still retains a good deal of naturally darkened silver plating, more so than other examples we’ve seen come through the shop. Being a pocket pistol, it has general handling marks but should be a welcomed addition to any Civil War Era collection. Please see our pictures and good luck.