Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver, 2nd Model, .45 SW Caliber – Historic Collector’s Firearm

Smith & Wesson Schofield Revolver – 2nd Model

Manufacture: 1876–77 – Caliber: .45 SW – Features: Excellent condition; includes factory archive letter.

History

A standard-issue US Army firearm during the 1870s and widely adopted by cavalry regiments, the Smith & Wesson Schofield holds an iconic place in the history of American weaponry. Designed as an evolution of the Model No. 3, it was produced in two successive variants. The 2nd Model—featured here—retains the general architecture of the first while incorporating a major improvement to the locking system: a redesigned latch that ensures safer opening. With only 5,934 units produced, the Schofield 2nd Model ranks among the rarest and most sought-after models in the No. 3 series. Virtually the entire production run was allocated for military service. Manufacturing ceased in 1877 when the US Army definitively adopted the Colt Single Action Army, which was deemed more robust and simpler for large-scale issue.

After their military service, many Schofields entered civilian life and were used by both lawmen and outlaws, including the infamous Jesse James. Many examples were subsequently shortened; some were used by Wells Fargo and bear the company's distinctive markings—markings that are either authentic or, frequently, counterfeit. This particular specimen remains in its shortened civilian configuration—a well-preserved example of a now-rare variant.

Our Model

Note: This firearm comes with its Smith & Wesson factory archive letter.

Having transitioned from military service to civilian life, this Smith & Wesson Schofield is in an excellent state of preservation and remains entirely in its original condition. Over time, the metal parts have acquired a beautiful, uniform "gunmetal" patina, free of any oxidation. The markings—deep, complete, and perfectly legible—attest to the absence of later restoration and confirm the authenticity of this American collector's piece. The "US" stamp on the butt is clearly visible, recalling the military origins of this revolver, which is iconic to the era of the conquest of the American West. The serial number (6XXX)—matching on both the butt and the cylinder—identifies this as a "Second Model," distinguished notably by its improved locking mechanism. The original wooden grips are perfectly fitted; they bear minor signs of personalization by a former owner who discreetly engraved his initials—a testament to the history this weapon has lived through.

Mechanically, this Schofield revolver is in excellent working order: there is no play or excessive cylinder gap, the action is strong, and the trigger pull is smooth and crisp. Cylinder opening and simultaneous shell extraction function flawlessly, living up to the reputation of the famous top-break system developed by Smith & Wesson. The 5½-inch barrel—featuring the classic Old West configuration and chambered in .45 S&W—has an excellent bore with a satin light-gray finish and sharp, deep rifling free of damage, ensuring great accuracy.

A true icon of Old West weaponry, the Schofield revolver remains a highly sought-after American collector's piece among enthusiasts of historical firearms and collectors of guns from the era of the conquest of the West.

The firearm comes with its official classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.