Antique Smith and Wesson .22 Caliber Model 1 Third Issue Revolver 1868-1872

This is a very clean Smith and Wesson Model 1 Third Issue revolver which was

manufactured sometime between 1868 and 1872. It is a seven shot designed to fire the now

obsolete low pressure .22 caliber black powder rimfire cartridge. It was the last of the tip up

style of revolvers manufactured by Smith and Wesson. The distinctive birds’ head grip, fluted

cylinder and round barrel are classic attributes of the Third Issue. The serial number of this

particular revolver is 116953. References state that production of the third issue began with

serial number 1 and ended with 131163, likely placing the manufacture of this particular example

closer to 1872 than 1868.

This revolver is a handsome piece. A considerable amount of the original bluing can be seen on

the frame and portions of the cylinder while the rest of it gradually gives way to a silver-gray,

age related patina that covers the 3 1/8 inch barrel. There is no rust to be found anywhere on

this gun. The cylinder and chambers are nothing short of immaculate and the rifling remains

strong and crisp as can be seen in the photos. There is one issue. The hammer will not stay

cocked. The hammer smoothly pulls rearward, the cylinder indexes as it should but the hammer

falls. It will not stay cocked. As this gun is not sold to be fired, the revolver will still display

beautifully in your collection, even with this minor shortcoming. If desired this could likely be

repaired by gunsmiths or firms that specialize in this sort of repair.

At least one of the rosewood birds’ head grip scales is definitely matched to the revolver. The

serial number that appears on the butt of the revolver can be found on the back side of the right

scale.

This is a beautiful antique revolver that is cleaner than a great deal of the other ones found in the

market today.