I Finally Got a First Model Schofield!

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,


I recently won an auction for a Schofield 1st model. Take a look
and tell me what you think.


Cheers!
Webb

 

[Schof45]

Congratulations Webb,

You are probably aware that this Schofield is one of the 25 that was once fitted with a Kelton thumb safety. I have two of these in my collection, one like yours where it has been removed, the other still with the Kelton. Enjoy the Schofield and have fun learning about the Kelton.

Petter

 

[JKP099]

Congratulations! Have fun!

 

[H Richard]

Very nice, just some minimal normal wear. Wish I had one.

 

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,


Thanks for the response! Yes, I noticed the tell-tale signs of the
previously installed Kelton Safety. A while back, I asked for info
on Kelton's Safety device but no one responded. All I have seen
are pics on-line and in a couple of S&W books I have.

I haven't seen anything on how it worked specifically and what
the inside of the altered guns looked like. I have Kelton's patent
drawing but it lacks quite a bit on detail in the way this device
was applied (except in a very general way). I didn't know about
the 25 test revolvers.

Are there any books or articles on the Kelton Saftey Device?


Cheers!
Webb

 

[kev74]

I like it!

 

[Bobbysixkiller]

I’ve been after one of these for a while. Several years actually. Every time I find one it’s just over my budget. Congratulations on a beautiful piece of history.

 

[45NUTT]

Did you also buy some lottery tickets?? I like it a lot.

 

[65Whelen]

Very cool, I find these Schofields fascinating. Congrats on your find.

 

[Schof45]

Webb,
I have not been able to find much information about the Kelton safety. What is know is that the Ordnance department fitted 25 revolvers with the device which was invented by Col. John C. Kelton.
Look at Neal & Jinks book "Smith & Wesson, 1857 - 1945" on page 219 for additional information.

 

[SLT223]

What year was that produced? The amount of blueing and crisp edges is impressive for something that old. I know nothing about them, but that looks pretty good for something well past 100. I’m comparing that to most early first gen SAA’s I’ve seen.

 

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

Webb,
I have not been able to find much information about the Kelton safety. What is know is that the Ordnance department fitted 25 revolvers with the device which was invented by Col. John C. Kelton.
Look at Neal & Jinks book "Smith & Wesson, 1857 - 1945" on page 219 for additional information.

Yes, I have read that section but it isn't very illuminating. Some-
where there is a document that is the source of this information.
I would like to know and see the document and learn what was
the original reason for the test and the outcome.

When one reads the specification part of the patent, one finds
out the Kelton Safety was a safety that had to be depressed
along with pulling the trigger in order for the gun to fire. From
the patent application:

"The danger of unintentional or premature discharge of a weapon
is always considerable, and with mounted men using the pistol
in hand-to-hand conflict there is always danger to comrades in
the ranks by the premature discharge of weapons ...
In order to avoid the danger, I arrest the movement of
the hammer when at full-bent [cock] by a device which ...
renders the combined operation [of the] for[e] finger and
thumb necessary to discharge the weapon."

The images I see of the Kelton Safety, the "Safety" is always
on the right-hand side of the revolver. Therefore, in order to
operate this safety, revolver would have to be held it in the left
hand. It is my understanding that in the Cavalry, the left hand
was used to control the reigns of the bridle. So In my mind, this
would severely limit its usability in the Cavalry.


Cheers!
Webb