Smith & Wesson ‘Safety Bicycle’ Hammerless Revolver, 2nd Model, 2″ Barrel, .32 Caliber

Smith & Wesson Revolver – Safety Bicycle DA .32, 2nd Model

Manufacture: 1902–1909 – Caliber: .32 S&W – Feature: 2-inch barrel

History

Smith & Wesson’s .32 and .38 caliber double-action revolvers played a pivotal role in the brand's dominance of the pocket revolver market in the late 19th century. Produced in the hundreds of thousands, they generated massive demand not only in the United States but also in Europe and across the globe. The .32 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver—and the Hammerless model in particular—was highly prized. Lacking an exposed hammer, it offered the advantage of not snagging on clothing, making it ideal for concealed carry. The Smith & Wesson Safety 3rd Model evolved from the 1st Model, featuring modifications to the cylinder release mechanism and side-barrel markings on the 2-inch versions. Today, it is a highly sought-after collector's item, representing a significant example of late 19th-century American handgun manufacturing.

Our Model

This double-action Smith & Wesson revolver is in excellent condition.

The original nickel finish shows slight signs of wear, likely due to friction against the cylinder. Approximately 95% of the original nickel plating remains, retaining a brilliant, uniform luster. The hammer still displays a good portion of its original case-hardening, while the trigger guard retains its blued finish. The markings—correct for this model, including the S&W address on the right side of the barrel—are crisp and clearly visible. The serial number (140XXX), found on the butt of the grip and matching the cylinder and release mechanism, confirms this to be a complete and authentic 2nd Model. The original grips bearing the S&W logo are in excellent, flawless condition.

Its mechanical operation is excellent, with no lock-up play or barrel-to-cylinder gap issues. Indexing is perfect, and cylinder play is minimal—barely perceptible. Opening the action and ejecting cartridges is smooth and effortless. The 2-inch barrel, chambered in .32 S&W—the shortest length offered for this model—features a mirror-like bore with crisp, pristine rifling, despite slight signs of use.

This "Bicycle Model" version is in remarkable condition, making it a particularly rare and sought-after piece.

Classified as Category D, it comes with its official classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House—available for unrestricted sale.