Inquiry Regarding Unusual Barrel Weight on Smith & Wesson Single Shot Target Pistol

[Sunny Pepper]

Hello dear forum members!

I'm currently seeking a precise identification of my Smith & Wesson Single Shot Target Pistol, chambered in .22LR with a 10-inch barrel.
Is this Model 1 1891 ? The Serial Number: 3964

This pistol displays an unusual feature: a barrel weight mounted beneath the barrel.
This component appears to be professionally crafted and securely affixed using screws, yet I have found no reference to such an accessory

I have been unable to determine whether this barrel weight was:

• a factory-installed feature ?
• part of a limited prototype or special-order configuration ?
• or a post-market custom modification for competitive shooting purposes ?

Thx for your help !
Sonja

 

[Sunny Pepper]

Alright dear forum, I've made some progress. Due to the low serial number, I believe this is a "conversion": a .22 barrel built into a .38 Single Action Third Model frame. So it's not a Model 1! The grips and barrel weight suggest that the gun was definitely used in competitions. Do you share my opinion? Does anyone have lists of all the pistols that were used in the Olympic Games?

 

[daddio202]

Do the numbers match on barrel and latch match frame serial #? Any numbers on hidden areas of weight? Its within model 1 serial range. Grips definitely not original but look nice. Any info. Written on inside of grips? Any stamping on handle under grips suggesting a factory rework?

 

[glowe]

Welcome to the Forum. I would almost be certain the bottom rib is not factory. They would not screw on a piece of metal under the barrel. The stocks are not factory either, so some shooter has been working on that Single Shot. The barrel does not have patenet dates stamped on the top of rib so should be a Second Model Barrel. The frame is not a 38 Single Action since there is no recoil shield.

The three Single Shot models were the First Model which had had "Model of 1891 on the top rib and it was a Single Action only. The Second Model Single Shot was also a single action and started again with serial number "1'. The frame lacked the recoil shield that the 1st Model had. Lastly, the Third Model Single Shot or Perfected Model had a flat bottom section of the barrel and the trigger was moved well forward of the rear of the trigger guard. Serial number of the Third Model started at #4619.

Share the serial number on the butt-frame and see if you can find a number stamped on the barrel?

 

[mmaher94087]

This SS is a good candidate for a letter, The letter may only give a dealer name, but the modifications may be from a known target shooter. It's a $100 crapshoot.

 

[Sunny Pepper]

Welcome to the Forum. I would almost be certain the bottom rib is not factory. They would not screw on a piece of metal under the barrel. The stocks are not factory either, so some shooter has been working on that Single Shot. The barrel does not have patenet dates stamped on the top of rib so should be a Second Model Barrel. The frame is not a 38 Single Action since there is no recoil shield.

The three Single Shot models were the First Model which had had "Model of 1891 on the top rib and it was a Single Action only. The Second Model Single Shot was also a single action and started again with serial number "1'. The frame lacked the recoil shield that the 1st Model had. Lastly, the Third Model Single Shot or Perfected Model had a flat bottom section of the barrel and the trigger was moved well forward of the rear of the trigger guard. Serial number of the Third Model started at #4619.

Share the serial number on the butt-frame and see if you can find a number stamped on the barrel?

Thank you very much for your warm welcome and friendly reception, as well as your well-founded answers.

Yes, you are absolutely right! The recoil shield is missing.
That means my assumption was incorrect. I can only find one number engraved on the gun frame between the grip panels. On the barrel, and when it is tilted open, I cannot find any additional number. The barrel only shows the engraved inscription "Smith & Wesson." The number is: 3964

 

[Sunny Pepper]

This SS is a good candidate for a letter, The letter may only give a dealer name, but the modifications may be from a known target shooter. It's a $100 crapshoot.

Before I contacted the forum, I was almost tempted to submit a request to the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation So I'm definitely on the same page and share your opinion... but I wanted to consult a few clever minds first. I'm really excited to see what I'll uncover!

 

[Sunny Pepper]

Do the numbers match on barrel and latch match frame serial #? Any numbers on hidden areas of weight? Its within model 1 serial range. Grips definitely not original but look nice. Any info. Written on inside of grips? Any stamping on handle under grips suggesting a factory rework?

Hey Daddio, sorry for the late reply. My workday was packed, and I'm just now getting back to things in the evening.

At the moment, I've only found a manufacturer's number between the grip panels on the frame. But thanks to your well-informed and detailed questions, I've decided to ask my partner to disassemble the revolver. Luckily, I have the best man for the job right by my side – a certified master gunsmith from Ferlach, known for his craftsmanship and precision with historical firearms.

 

[glowe]

Well the frame number indicates a Second Model Single Shot made later in production run. There were only 4617 2nd Models made so your gun would fit a 1907 or 1908 date. I have not owned a 2nd Model but am wondering if the serial number should be up on the top strap? The top latch had the matching number on the butt if original and the serial number should be on the rear of the frame between the "ears" where the top strap goes over the frame lugs. Check closely with a magnifying glass for the numbers there. BTW, that gun is not a revolver.

 

[Modelof1891]

The frame has a single pin over the trigger and is a second model. The number for the barrel would be between the lugs under where you lift the latch and rear sight. This would be a very small number and the area usually needs to be cleaned with a q tip to view it. You may find the number on the back side of the ejector.
(edit) Most of the second model single line address has been buffed off.