Smith & Wesson rim-fire revolver. Circa 1885. .32 Muzzleloader

Largest selection of genuine antique weapons for sale in UK. See our website andrewbottomley.com Ref 3897. A scarce Smith & Wesson American tip up 5 shot .32 rim-fire revolver.Circa 1861-1885. The 3.5 inch barrel marked on top with the name "SMITH & WESSON, SPRINGFIELD MASS. PAT.D. APR 3. JULY 5.1859 & NOV 21 1865. At the time the Civil War started, Smith & Wesson was the only manufacturer of revolvers using a bored-through cylinder. A feature which was required in order to efficiently use the modern cartridge ammunition of the time. Since 1857 the firm's only production cartridge firearm had been the Model 1 revolver in .22 rim-fire calibre. While the market was good for its .22 cal pocket pistol, S&W recognised its limitations early on and wanted to answer the growing demand for a larger calibre design with the advantages of the Model 1. Their solution to this demand was a scaled up version of their latest .22 cal revolver, the Model 1 Second Issue. A great many of the orders S & W received during the Civil War came from soldiers or men soon to be soldiers. Those looking for dependable protection could do no better than the Smith & Wesson which could be loaded quickly with waterproof metallic ammunition and was of a size suitable for the belt or a small holster. It is generally acknowledged that a significant number of smith & Wesson revolvers saw service, sometimes quite active service, in the U.S. Civil War. Two piece wooden grips. Overall length 8 inches. Action in good working order. Some signs of use and wear during it's working life. Ref 3897. This is an obsolete antique item and is sold as a collectors item only. No Licence is required in the United Kingdom. If you wish to purchase this item please visit our website andrewbottomley.com where you can pay by credit/debit card. Established 1968.