Collectible Smith & Wesson No. 2 Revolver (1865)

Smith & Wesson Model 2 Army, .32 Rimfire caliber

History

The .32 caliber is a classic Smith & Wesson offering; the company successfully capitalized on its excellent qualities. The Model No. 2—known as the "No. 2 Old Model"—was a collectible revolver chambered for metallic rimfire cartridges and manufactured between 1861 and 1874. This innovative six-shot model left its mark on history by playing a role in major events such as the American Civil War and the settling of the American West. Known as the Smith & Wesson Model No. 2 Army, over 77,000 units were produced, a testament to its success and significance in the history of American firearms.

Our Model

Our Smith & Wesson Model No. 2 Old Model revolver is in excellent condition. Despite its age, the metal components are remarkably well-preserved—free of oxidation—and retain significant traces of the original, still-lustrous blued finish. The barrel markings are deeply stamped and perfectly legible, as are the markings on the cylinder. The serial number (47XXX), located on the butt, indicates it was manufactured in 1865, during the Civil War.

Mechanically, the revolver is in very good condition, reflecting the high manufacturing standards of the era: the frame is solid with no looseness, cylinder indexing is perfect, the action is smooth, and the hammer strike is powerful. The barrel-cylinder gap is minimal, and any play is limited to normal operational tolerance. The 6-inch .32 caliber barrel shows signs of use but retains crisp, deep rifling. The revolver is fitted with its original grips, which are in excellent, undamaged condition. This Smith & Wesson model exemplifies the superb early craftsmanship of this legendary brand—an essential piece for any collector.