My "new" New Departure 2nd Model 1.5"

[StevethePirate]

I've been looking for a 1.5" for a while and came across this 2nd model from 1888, I think, on gunbroker recently. I'm 99.9% sure it was cut down from a longer barrel at some point, but it appears to be well done. I don't believe they ever made the 2nd model in a 1.5" configuration. Somewhat surprisingly, a BK grip adapter fits reasonably well and definitely helps with comfort.

Thanks again to you guys for help with the firing pin spring question. I'm looking forward to getting this little guy out to the range and putting in some quality time with it.

 

[StevethePirate]

Does anyone know if there were any factory 2nd model 1.5" guns? My guess is no, and it was cut down, but I don't know much about these earlier DA guns.

 

[gmborkovic]

With S&W dont say it wasnt made, because 5mins. later one will turn up with a letter. The one above appears to be a 38. Man what a hand full of fire and thunder!

 

[glowe]

S&W always pinned front sights unless forged with the barrel. Your 38 Safety does not have a pin under the sight and the front sight is not forged, so . . . .

A five yard target should be your starting distance.

 

[Boulder350]

Odds are low for your gun to be factory. All factory 1 1/2" guns I have seen have don't have any patents on the top of the barrel, have the cut back top rib with the radius inside and out like a regular barrel length gun, and have a pinned front sight. I know Smith and Wesson made a small special run of 2 1/4" barrels on the second model, I have an in the white 2 1/4" barrel that is factory. I has the characteristics I described above, on the end of the barrel, and a pinned front sight. Interestingly the patents are rolled on the top of the barrel and starting just behind the front sight and are not complete as they ran out of space. Like Mike said above, you never know with the special orders. The book says there are special order 2" barreled second model guns. I love the short barreled guns from this time frame.

 

[StevethePirate]

Thanks! My guess is that it's something someone just cut down and then slotted in a front sight. 5 yards might be a bit generous as this hits QUITE high at about 5 yards. No matter, it's a blast to shoot, and surprisingly comfortable to shoot (the J-frame grip adapter up front probably helps a good bit!). Sadly, no markings are visible except for the serial number on the butt.