Good day:

Just took possession of a 1 1/2 New Model 2nd Issue in .32 rimfire.

Questions:

- I see no indication of the model on the gun itself. I removed the grips to see if there might be some indication on the frame but see none; I did not want to proceed with any further disassembly as I really don't have the proper tools. Am I correct that the model simply is not indicated on the revolver?
- Perhaps more surprising I see no indication of the caliber of the gun; I guess it was assumed the buyer knew what he/she was getting??
- There is some slight pitting on the top of the barrel. Much of the writing is easily read. It is marked "Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass. Pat. Apr.3.55. July 5.59 & Nov. 21.65" The "S" in Smith & Wesson is largely obliterated by the pitting as is the last patent date - is what I have written (Nov.21.65) correct?

Comments:

- When I first got the gun the cylinder would not rotate when cocking the hammer but now it seems to work well; as I said I did not do anything to attempt repair so I guess I just got lucky and something was not quite properly aligned and then somehow got corrected (??)
- I'm afraid I'm one who does not fully appreciate the capabilities of manufacturers in those days. The piece is solid and obviously well made. Gives the impression the maker took pride in his efforts.
- For some reason the quality of the barrel markings is very appealing to me. Despite a few characters now being difficult to read the lettering is rather exquisitely done in very fine small letters.
- One of those items where one thinks "if only it could talk" but I suspect this would day "well, for the last 100 years I sat in a draw with some socks..."

Serial number is 859xx.

Note really sure why I bought the thing but am glad I did!

Ned

Good day:

Just took possession of a 1 1/2 New Model 2nd Issue in .32 rimfire.

Questions:

- I see no indication of the model on the gun itself. I removed the grips to see if there might be some indication on the frame but see none; I did not want to proceed with any further disassembly as I really don't have the proper tools. Am I correct that the model simply is not indicated on the revolver?
- Perhaps more surprising I see no indication of the caliber of the gun; I guess it was assumed the buyer knew what he/she was getting??
- There is some slight pitting on the top of the barrel. Much of the writing is easily read. It is marked "Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass. Pat. Apr.3.55. July 5.59 & Nov. 21.65" The "S" in Smith & Wesson is largely obliterated by the pitting as is the last patent date - is what I have written (Nov.21.65) correct?

Comments:

- When I first got the gun the cylinder would not rotate when cocking the hammer but now it seems to work well; as I said I did not do anything to attempt repair so I guess I just got lucky and something was not quite properly aligned and then somehow got corrected (??)
- I'm afraid I'm one who does not fully appreciate the capabilities of manufacturers in those days. The piece is solid and obviously well made. Gives the impression the maker took pride in his efforts.
- For some reason the quality of the barrel markings is very appealing to me. Despite a few characters now being difficult to read the lettering is rather exquisitely done in very fine small letters.
- One of those items where one thinks "if only it could talk" but I suspect this would day "well, for the last 100 years I sat in a draw with some socks..."

Serial number is 859xx.

Note really sure why I bought the thing but am glad I did!

Ned

Your gun was made in approx. 1871 and is right in the middle of the production run from 1868 to 1875. As you say, it is a Model 1 1/2 New Model .32RF. About 100,000 were made. S&W did not stamp Model numbers on guns until 1957. The problems with function that you mention are probably due to 138 yrs of old grease,& crud in the works. A thorough disassembly and cleaning will do wonder for it.