Smith & Wesson Model 1½ Top-Break .32 Caliber – Collector’s Revolver with Mirror-Bright Bore

Smith & Wesson Revolver – Model 1½ Single Action

Manufactured 1878+ – .32 S&W Caliber – Original nickel finish, mirror-bright bore

A Smith & Wesson Model 1½ Single Action pocket revolver in impeccable condition, featuring a nearly intact original nickel finish and a mirror-bright bore—a true collector's piece from Smith & Wesson.

History

The Smith & Wesson Model 1½ Single Action in .32 S&W caliber was the first in a long line of successful revolvers, produced between 1878 and 1892. This model marked a major evolution over the earlier "tip-up" revolvers, thanks to its iconic "top-break" (break-barrel) opening system, which facilitated extraction and reloading. It also introduced the use of more modern centerfire ammunition and a rebounding hammer for improved safety. Available in various barrel lengths and predominantly offered with a nickel finish, fewer than 100,000 units were produced, making it a sought-after piece for collectors of American pocket revolvers today.

Our Model

This Smith & Wesson "top-break" revolver retains all its elegance, featuring an original nickel finish that is nearly 100% intact, complemented by a hammer that still displays its period case-hardening. The markings are correct, crisp, and perfectly legible. The matching serial number (77XXX)—found on the butt, cylinder, and opening mechanism—indicates late production, a particularly interesting feature for this model. The gutta-percha grips, adorned with the S&W monogram, are original, in perfect condition, and fit flawlessly. Mechanically, the firearm is in excellent condition, operating without play or excessive cylinder gap, and featuring smooth opening, a fluid cocking action, a crisp trigger pull, and precise indexing. The 3-inch .32 S&W caliber barrel has a mirror-like bore with perfect rifling, attesting to very limited use.

Smith & Wesson’s quality craftsmanship ensures this collector’s piece remains fully functional today, making it an ideal addition to a collection of American pocket pistols.