I've been offered to buy a Smith and Wesson #1, 22 cal issue # unknown. I need some information on these pistols, approx values,variations. I don't know if I want this but if the price is right I'll proceed but at this point I know absolutely nothing about them. Thanks in advance

I've been offered to buy a Smith and Wesson #1, 22 cal issue # unknown. I need some information on these pistols, approx values,variations. I don't know if I want this but if the price is right I'll proceed but at this point I know absolutely nothing about them. Thanks in advance

If you ever think you might buy another S&W you need to get the standard catalog of Smith and Wesson 3rd edition by Supica and Nahas. It will cost about $35-$40 shipped and will pay for itself with the info you need on the first gun your thinking about, like your .22 mentioned above. Lots of great info and instant feedback when you run across and old S&W. You can buy it on Ebay sometimes cheaper or at Amazon.com We would need alot mor info to even begin to answer your question about this gun.

There were 3 major sub-models of the #1.
The first, brings very big bucks. It has a more rounded frame shape. (It had 6 sub-changes or types itself.)

The #1-second has a more squared edge to the frame, and still has a square butt shape. I've got a couple. Ballpark prices I've seen on well used guns range maybe $200-600 depending on condition, and if it still works. Some of these were manufactured during the civil war, so that might add just a little.

The #1-third was a major re-design. It has a rounded birds-head butt, and a round, not octagon barrel. These bring less than the seconds. I have a couple of these, too.

Condition and finish is everything. There were many options that add value. Silver plate, half plate, etc. Lots of them had their barrels shortened, lowering their value. A factory short barrel will be worth a large premium.

Shooting these IS NOT RECOMMENDED! That said, I have shot mine sparingly with subsonic .22 short CBs. (basically it's a primer and a bullet without powder)

Hope this helps a little,
Chris

__________________
Chris
SWCA #2243 SWHF #292

ctg4570, thanks for the info. Pontiaker, see it wasn't that difficult a question.