Smith .22 short single action Dec 18 60

[revnig]

Any help identifying this model is appreciated. It's a single action and small weapon 22 short I'd guess. Serial 15465. More embarrassing is I can't figure out how to breach it open. Nothing is in the cylinder but how do I open this thing?
Thank you

 

[Camster]

That's a spring loaded latch,adjacent to the front,lower section of the cylinder.(if it's frozen,don't force it)When activated the barrel should pivot upward.
I think that's a Model 1 or variant of same.

 

[Göring's S&W]

That's a 1st model 3rd issue which were made 1868 to 1881. Your SN is likely 1870 production (approx.).

Judging by the hammer and nickel being plated, I suspect it is refinished.

 

[first-model]

... it is also chambered in the original .22 short black powder.

 

[Speedo2]

I would not shoot modern 22 shorts in it; they may be a bit too strong for that old girl. Perhaps some of those RWS 22 BB caps if you can find them? -S2

 

[JSR III]

Judging by the hammer and nickel being plated, I suspect it is refinished

If you look at the last photo showing the hammer from the top, there does appear to be some case color remaining. Case coloring does fade over time and I would think that 150 years falls into the category of over time.

If you hold the gun in your left hand with the barrel facing to your left, take you thumb and index finger and pull up on the two catches below and in front of the cylinder while holding the grip frame in your right hand. The barrel will tip up and the gun will open. This tip up function of the barrel is why the gun is referred to as a "tip up".

The next generation of small arms opens at the rear top of the cylinder and opens in the opposite direction. They were called top breaks.

I hope that helps.

 

[revnig]

Thanks James,
I did get it open and seems to function perfectly. I basically was trying to open the wron direction. No harm done. Thank you kindly,

Paul