Anybody have any idea what the lowest serial number in existence is for a 1st model 32 cal lemon squeezer? I have one with the serial number 1777. the number is both on the butt of the gun and the cylinder. thanks

Welcome to the Forum. The 32 Safety Hammerless, 1st Model started with serial number 1. It is almost certain that your Safety was made the first year of production - 1887.

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Gary
SWCA 2515

Serial No. 3 was in the factory collection years ago. It may now be in the S&W gun collection donated to the Springfield History Museum. Ed.

Dummy question here . Why do they call it a "lemon squeezer?"

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Smith. And Wesson. And Me!

There are no "Dummy" questions on the Forum! Because of the design of the safety lever on the back strap, one had to grip the grip frame tightly, thereby squeezing the lever which released the safety mechanism, allowing the hammer to fall, firing the gun when th trigger was pulled. The actions of squeezing, similar to squeezing a lemon, caused shooters to label the gun as a "Lemon Squeezer." Ed.

I might add that this term was often attached to cheaply made safety hammerless revolvers, so not liked by many S&W collectors. The company even used the term back in the days of production, but its connotation makes it unacceptable as a name for such fine revolvers as those made by Smith & Wesson.

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Gary
SWCA 2515