Rare Nickel Smith and Wesson Model of 91 with 6 inch .32cal barrel
SOLD FOR: $1,275
WOA#: WY240318RU075
Make: Smith and Wesson
Model: Model of 91 (1st Model)
Serial Number: 7402
Year of Manufacture: 1893-1905 (1of 229)
Caliber: .32 cal
Action Type: Single shot
Markings: On the top of the ribbed barrel we see “Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass USA” “MODEL OF 91” PAT APR 20. 73 FEB 20. & DEC 18.77. MAY 11. 80”; On either side of our hard rubber grips we see the same encircled “SW” mark molded into the grips. “PATD AUG 30.92” is emboldened in the grip beneath the logo. We can observe matching serial numbers on the bottom of the case hardened locking latch.
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight of the 32 cal. 6 inch Barrel is a fine flared Paine Target blade. It is Pinned and recessed to the tip of the rib, it is original to the pistol. The rear sight is also original to the pistol. Two flats of the notch rear sight offer a wide field of view for such a fine front blade.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are original to the piece. There is almost minimal wear. The grips rate in about 98% overall condition. There are the smallest of scratches visible and grips have no chips. Please See our photos
Magazine Quantity & Condition: No Magazine this is a single shot
Type of Finish: Nickel Steel, Case hardened hammer, trigger and trigger guard. Hard Black Rubber Diamond Grips
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are still showing original machine marking and the rifling is semi-strong. There is zero visible erosion in the bore. These are as close to perfect as any shooter or collector would want to see in an early Smith and Wesson.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains 92% of the original finish. There are some nicks and scratches throughout. Most noticeable on the left side of the gun near the hinge there is a larger scratch. The top of the ribbed barrel shows heavy use and noticeable wear. Please see Photos. There are some oxidation marks from handling near the grip and yellowing in the original nickel finish. This gun has been meticulously cared for through its over hundred year lifetime. The screw heads are sharp and smooth. The grip screws show some marks but are in excellent condition for its age. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about very good to excellent condition In this writer’s opinion.
Mechanics: The action functions flawlessly and locks up great. The Ejector functions excellently. 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: none
Our Assessment: The Olympic Barrel is designed for exact bullet Alignment for Accurate Competitive shooting. This pistol’s accuracy leaves me wanting to go to the range. The styling makes me want to hang it on the wall and just stare at it. I would love to own this gun just for the bragging rights. They are accurate, iconic, historic and quite collectable. No Smith collection is complete without one.. Take a closer look at this one it may be just what you need to scratch that itch. But let me warn you once you start down this road of collecting it’s hard to stop. Good luck and enjoy the auction.
K. F.
