S&W Model 2 Revolver

ldoman · #1 10-21-2016, 07:09 PM

This one caught my eye in an antique store today, but I'm unsure of what I have. S/N is 28398, no other numbers except the single digit on the cylinder face and the grips are serialized too. Functions fine and has a great bore. I'd be interested in any historical information and what the membership might estimate the value at.
Thx,
Lyn

opoefc · #2 10-22-2016, 01:15 PM

Welcome to the Forum. Looks like a typical Model 2 Army in .32RF caliber. Collectors list 9 variations of their model due to production and engineering changes. Yours is a type 3. The number on the face of the cylinder is an assembly number and should also be present on the back of the barrel and on the frame under the grips. The serial number on these guns appear only on the butt and on the back side of the right grip panel. Examples in approx. the same condition are going for around $550-$750 range at most gun shows and auctions today. These revolvers were popular as private purchases during the Civil War by members of the military. Your gun was made in 1864 and my value range estimate includes a slight premium for Civil War era guns. Ed.

gmborkovic · #3 10-22-2016, 01:51 PM

Hello new guy, nice example, just dont buy anymore with a rivet for a hinge pin screw. That rivet kills it as a collector gun. These guns seem to be survivors ,so there are a lot of them around. You have to remember these were the belly/sash guns of the era. And the rivet was a common period
repair. Still a nice piece. Best

mrcvs · #4 10-22-2016, 03:44 PM

As described above, the hinge pin screw has been replaced with a rivet of some sort. Worse yet, it was of an improper length and was filed, but whomever filed it also left file marks on the firearm! Because of this, and other condition issues, I would likely pass on this one unless it can be had for under $500.

JSR III · #5 10-22-2016, 06:14 PM

That is a neat looking model 2. Replacement hinge screws are available however, the removal can be a pain. Most likely if it is truly a rivet, it will need to be drilled out. Hopefully the threads aren't damaged and once removed a replacement screw can be installed. If you do attempt to drill it out, drill from the left side as the threads are on the right.

I have one with an original screw that wobbles terribly and I will be removing it in an effort to replace it. Not sure if the screw head has worn itself smaller or the hole in the frame has worm larger but it is very sloppy. One of the major design flaws with these models and I believe the major reason S&W went to the much stronger top break.