z Sold ~ Antique Smith & Wesson #2 Army revolver

Model 2, a full size pistol which utilized a .32 caliber bullet. Holding six rimfire copper cartridges, it had about the same power as the popular .36 cal. Colt Navy. Introduced just a few months before Fort Sumter, it was an immediate hit as soldiers of all ranks and anxious civilians stood in line to buy them. In fact it sold so well that S&W was forced to stop taking new orders in 1862 because they could not fill them. Because of its military associations the Model 2 quickly picked up the nickname _ArmyÓ or _Old Army,Ó even though it was never officially adopted by the military. While the Federals never bought any at least one state government, Kentucky, procured 2600 for its cavalry and mounted infantry units. High-ranking officers like Ambrose Burnside and George Custer desired them, but company officers and common soldiers appreciated them also. This one is in remarkable good condition. While the grips are sound with no cracks it does have a chip missing on the left grip near the top. The dark blue finish is very smooth with only a tiny bit of rust around hinge area from black powder loads.The right side of the barrel has a long patch of blue missing from laying in a holster. This revolver is serial #9664 produced in 1861. The action works perfectly and locks up tight every time. The barrel hinge is solid and the latch locks up securely.The bore has very strong rifling with some black powder pitting. All markings are crisp and clear. The barrel is marked (Smith&Wesson Springfield Mass.) The cylinder is marked (Patended April 3, 1855. July 5,1859. and Dec 18,1860.)CAN BE SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOU.