Schofield and Russian models

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anbar

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I have been reading the differences between Schofield and Russian models and am still not clear of the sub-model numbers and distinctions. I want to buy either of the two but many ads for them are mixing the two models? ...at least to the point of my confusion. models are named as one but have features of the other. For example, a Schofield shown with a frame-mounted top break lever.

where may I read a clear and distinct description?

anbar
 
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schofields and russian

thank you sir. I will look for the references.

can you suggest a few reputable sellers?
 
Most ebay dealers are fair, but I can't pick one or the other. I would sugesst local book stores in your area, gun shows, even gunshops might have a copy.
 
Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! To me, the three biggest differences between the Schofield and early Russian revolvers are:

1. Russian is .44 cal. while Schofield is .45 Cal.
2. Russian had a pull up barrel latch attached to the barrel. Schofield had a pull back latch attached to the frame to make it easier for the horse soldier to open the gun for reloading.
3. The Russian has a round butt grip frame. Schofield has a square butt grip frame.

I say early Russians because there was a significant change the Russians wanted in the grip frame which created the pronounced prawl (AKA knuckle) at the top back of the grip. The prawl was not used on the Schofields.

As far as sellers go, are you in the US? If so, you will probably find the books on Amazon.com. If you are referring to buying the guns, I would recommend a reputable auction house like Heritage or Rock Island.
 
Last edited:
Hello Anbar, new guy. Be real careful when buying this model.
There are a lot of idiosyncrasies. These models are very popular
and sometimes complex. Just read and read some more. Best
 
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It seems to me that a lot of people call any top break S&W a "Schofield", regardless of the latch configuration. As long as you know what's what you should be able to find what you want.
 
Two books Inrecommend are Dave Chicoine's "gunsmithing Old West Guns" and Charles Pate's "Smith And Wesson American Model." The former will show how to identify and confirm the originality of a gun and the latter is the best researched an complete history of the guns.

The identity of the models, but not the originality, is fairly simple to deduce from their respective pictures. The only real difference between the American and Russian Models is the Caliber.

A First Model Schofield.



A Second Model Schofield.



In descending order, a 1st Model American, A 2nd Model American and a 1st Model Russian.

 
Model No 3 designates large frame, .44 caliber for the American/Russian and .45 caliber for the Schofield.

The American/1st Russian are the same basic frame w/ a standard 8 in barrel and pinned front sight.

2nd Russian completely different frame w/ large grip knuckle and trigger guard spur, standard barrel 7 in w/ pinned front sight

3rd Russian same frame as 2nd Russian, standard barrel length reduced to 6.5 inches w/ a forged front sight.

All the above are top break w/a barrel mounted latch

anbar said:
I have been reading the differences between Schofield and Russian models and am still not clear of the sub-model numbers and distinctions. I want to buy either of the two but many ads for them are mixing the two models? ...at least to the point of my confusion. models are named as one but have features of the other. For example, a Schofield shown with a frame-mounted top break lever.

where may I read a clear and distinct description?

anbar
Click to expand...
 
Another distinction is the price difference....!

Curious the reason. Schofield kid? Or is it just the production numbers on the Schofield were lower? Military numbers v commercial? Extremely low commercial production?

Not sure the reason would be that its a "better" pistol, or, caliber?

Darn things are collectable. Please contract me offline if you have one in great condition you'd let go for a modest price (ha ha!).
 
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