Smith & Wesson Model 1891 Collectible & Target Pistol – 8″ Mirror-Bore Barrel

Smith & Wesson – Second Model 1891 Single Shot Pistol

Manufacture: 1891+ – Caliber: .22 Long Rifle – 8" mirror-bore barrel, two-digit serial number

A rare Smith & Wesson Second Model 1891 Single Shot in .22 Long Rifle caliber—an outstanding precision single-shot pistol retaining a beautiful original blue finish, a matching two-digit serial number, and a pristine, mirror-like bore. An authentic American collectible firearm from the late 19th century.

History

By the late 19th century, Smith & Wesson had established itself as a leading manufacturer of American precision firearms. The Model 1891 Single Shot was developed as a target pistol, offering excellent build quality and remarkable accuracy. Built on a frame derived from Smith & Wesson's .38 caliber revolvers, it was offered with various barrel lengths and calibers, including .22 and .32. Its design allowed for interchangeable barrel and breech assemblies—an innovation particularly appreciated by shooters of the era. Versions chambered in .22 Long Rifle are among the most sought-after of this production run. Their reputation for accuracy led many American competitive shooters to adopt them, making the Single Shot one of the most iconic match pistols of its time.

Our Model

This Smith & Wesson Second Model 1891 Single Shot is in excellent condition. The metal parts retain a beautiful original blued finish, showing only minor signs of age. The markings are crisp and fully legible, particularly the delicate Smith & Wesson monogram stamped on the frame. The hammer retains a significant amount of its original case-hardening. Its serial number—"6X," matching the yoke—indicates a very early two-digit production run, a highly desirable feature for this model. The gutta-percha grips, featuring the Smith & Wesson logo, are original, perfectly fitted, and remarkably well-preserved.

Mechanically, the pistol performs excellently: the action opens smoothly, locks up firmly, cocks precisely, and offers a particularly pleasant trigger pull. Its 8-inch .22 Long Rifle barrel features a pristine, mirror-like bore with deep, well-defined rifling. The firearm is fitted with a Lyman front sight, a high-quality accessory ideally suited for precision shooting.

A remarkable Smith & Wesson Second Model 1891 Single Shot, combining an exceptionally early serial number and superb original condition with the elegance of one of the finest American precision firearms of the late 19th century.

The firearm is sold with an official classification certificate designating it as a Category D historical weapon, issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.