Need help identifying this gun

[USCGRetiredJosh]

I need a little help in this break top handgun. I was able to verify that the serial numbers do match. One on the butt of the gun and the other one is stamped right under were it breaks open. Serial number is 905XX. I'm helping my father catalog his guns for his will. My guess currently its a model 1 or 2.
Thanks
Josh

Yes, this is my first post to this forum but not a rookie to forums in general. I'm currently shopping for a 1911 45acp

 

[opoefc]

Welcome to the Forum. If the gun is a .38 caliber, then it appears to ba a S&W 2nd model .38 Single Action, made about 1890. Aka as a Model 2, 2nd issue. The same serial number should be found on the back of the cylinder and on the rear of the barrel between the "ears," and on the back of the right grip panel, if all parts are original. Ed.

 

[glowe]

The 38 Single Action, 2nd Model was manufactured from 1877 to 1891. Early examples had different stocks, with block letters S&W in the top round of the stocks. Shortly after this gun was introduced, the style changed to the intertwined logo as we are familiar with today. I believe the change was approved in 1876, but of course the company used up all their old inventory before changing. Your stocks look to be original and time appropriate, but you can check the inside of the right stock for a matching stamped serial number. As I recall, mine was shipped in 1878.

Your gun retains none of its original finish and is either parkerized or cold blued sometime in the past. All 38 Single Action revolvers are considered antiques by the BATF.

 

[ghostfinder]

looking for some info on a old s&w handgun, serial number 205589. last patent date jan 5, 82 . any idea when manufactured and what caliber? thank you

 

[H Richard]

gostfinder, please repost this question in it's own thread, and also see this post on how to provide information to help identify your gun. http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-antiques/326458-identify-your-gun.html

 

[USCGRetiredJosh]

Thanks for the info guys. I did find the serial number on the back of the barrel. No serial number on the inside of the grip, but it is on the bottom of the gun in between the handgrips on the metal.

.38 Single shot
Model 2
2nd Issue