Here's and original Smith & Wesson Model 2 in very good condition. This .32 cal rimfire was a favorite among private-purchase item among soldiers on both sides of the Civil Warm who found it's quick-loading self-contained cartridges to be a distinct advantage on the battlefield. Even Mark Twain carried a Smith & Wesson rimfire revolver during his brief stint as an officer in the Confederate Army
This particular model 2 is in great shape with an overwhelming percentage of its original vibrant blued finish remaining, with the balance turning into a pleasing natural "plum" patina. However, the most notable feature of this pistol is not its excellent condition, but the fact that it sports a set of British Proofmarks on on both the barrel and cylinder.
Unlike Colt, Smith & Wesson struggled to gain much footing in the European market. S&W's high cost, compared to the fact that the British traditionally favored large caliber revolvers, meant that VERY few Smith & Wesson No. 2's were exported to the UK. Some authors have estimated that less than 500 guns No. 2 Army revolvers were sold overseas, with perhaps as few as 20% of these pistols still in existence thanks to the number of guns that were destroyed in the 1990's during the UKs sweeping handgun bans. Truly these British-marked No. 2s are among the rarest of Smith & Wesson's revolvers.
Not only is this revolver in great shape, it is also fully functional. The action works perfectly and the cylinder locks up tight on full cock.
The rosewood grips are original and in fantastic condition with no chips or cracks.
The bore and chambers are good with strong rifling and some minor scattered surface rust and pitting throughout.
The model 2 was one of Smith & Wesson's earliest firearms; making it a must-own for any S&W collector. This British Proofmarked revolver is in good honest condition and certainly worthy of even the most discerning collections.
