Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless 3rd Model Lemon Squeezer 3″ Blued C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,080.00
LSB#: WY250429EH034
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .32 Safety Hammerless, 3rd Model
Serial Number: 228123
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1909–1937
Caliber: .32 S&W
Action Type: Double Action Only Top-Break Revolver with Automatic Ejector
Markings:
The top of the barrel rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D FEB.20.77 DEC.18.77 MAY 11.80 SEPT.11.83 OCT.2.83 APR.9.89”. The serial number “228123” is found on the butt of the grip frame and rear face of the cylinder. The yoke and latch are also serialized.
Barrel Length: 3”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half-moon blade integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a shallow “V”-notch in the barrel latch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered black hard rubber with “S&W” monograms at the tops. The checkering is sharp and the grips are free of chips or cracks. They rate in Excellent condition for age.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with well-defined rifling. There is light fouling but no major erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its original blued finish. There is light thinning at the muzzle and faint handling marks throughout, but no significant wear or corrosion. The screw heads are sharp, and all markings are clear. The revolver rates in Excellent overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. The safety grip mechanism engages correctly, the top-break operates smoothly, and the ejector functions as intended. Lock-up and timing are solid. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a contemporary maroon cardboard Smith & Wesson box. The label is distressed and cannot be matched to the revolver, but it offers a period-correct presentation.
Our Assessment:
Known affectionately as the “Lemon Squeezer,” the Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless was one of the first successful concealed-carry revolvers featuring an internal hammer and grip safety. This 3rd Model variant was produced between 1909 and 1937, retaining the sleek top-break design and safety features that made it ideal for discreet self-defense during its time.
This particular example is exceptionally well preserved, retaining 98% of its original blued finish, sharp, hard rubber grips, and strong mechanics. The included maroon S&W box adds to its display value, even if not original to this revolver.
For collectors of early 20th-century Smith & Wesson handguns or fans of the iconic Lemon Squeezer, this is a beautiful and desirable piece—both historically significant and aesthetically striking. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
