3 Digit Serial Smith and Wesson S&W Straight Line Single Shot 22LR Pistol
SOLD FOR: $2,225
WOA#:WY240318RU008
Make: Smith and Wesson
Model: Straight Line
Serial Number: 864
Year of Manufacture: 1925-1936
Caliber: 22lr
Action Type: Single shot
Markings: On the left of barrel is marked “Smith and Wesson” on the left of frame we find our “S&W trademark”; on the bottom butt of the grip frame we find our three digit serial number. On the right side frame is marked “MADE IN USA” on the Right side of the barrel round is marked “22 Long rifle ctg.” on top the rib of the barrel we see “SMITH AND WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS.USA PATD DEC4.1923”
Barrel Length: 10 inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter oval blade pinned to the rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch machined from a block and mounted near the chamber.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 piece walnut with gold colored SW Medallions Not very much wear!. The grips rate in about very good to excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: No Magazine Single Shot
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is excellent and the rifling is strong. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. With some smoothing near the muzzle under the beavertail and on the front strap and butt strap of the grip frame. The screw heads are strong with light tooling marks . The markings are Clear and proper depth.. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functionsFlawlessly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Metal SW Case and tools
Our Assessment: Approximately 1,870 Straight Line pistols were produced by Smith & Wesson before manufacturing ceased in 1936. This model had a 10 inch side swing barrel and was originally supplied in a felt-lined metal case. The designation “Straight Line” refers to the hammer, which does not not pivot but travels in a straight line. The Smith & Wesson Straight Line Single Shot target pistol is a fascinating piece of firearm history. Produced between 1925 and 1936, it stands out with its unique design and features.
Let’s delve into the details first the Design and Features were exclamatory on these pistols. The Straight Line Single Shot pistol was a departure from the traditional curves seen in earlier Smith & Wesson .22 single-shot target pistols. Instead of the graceful lines of its predecessors, it featured straight lines and sharp angles. The stock had a slanted parallelogram shape, reminiscent of the Clement-Smith & Wesson automatic. To open the action, one would half-cock the hammer and swing the barrel to the right on a pivot, similar to early cartridge derringers. The hammer moved in a straight line parallel to the bore, striking the cartridge with a plunger movement. Overall weight was 34 ounces, exceeding the weight of the Olympic or Perfected Model single-shot. Purpose and Inspiration for this weapon came from a bitter rivalry.
The Straight Line Model was developed as a response to the Colt Camp Perry Model single-shot, which had achieved success using the Colt Officers Model .38 frame in 1921 and 1922. Smith & Wesson aimed to create an arm that would be easier for the average shooter to handle while making improvements in the action.The grip shape was adapted from auto pistols, allowing the pistol to naturally point without wrist bending.The trigger moved in a straight pull, addressing concerns about aim disturbance caused by swinging hammers and triggers. Cambered in Caliber .22 LR with a Barrel Length of 10 inches. The Loading Mechanism/ Side Swing Barrel (opens for loading and ejecting the cartridge) Is one of the finer features of this weapon. The Competition Sights are a Fixed blade front sight and adjustable rear sight on ribbed barrel The Straight Line Single Shot remains a testament to Smith & Wesson’s innovation and willingness to explore unconventional designs in pursuit of accuracy and performance.
Serial number 864 is one of the most collectable items I have had the pleasure of handling. Please enjoy looking at and researching this truely inamering piece of Firearms history. Good luck and enjoy the aution.-K.F.
