Smith & Wesson .32 Hand Ejector 1st Model Double Action Model 1896 4 1/4″

SOLD FOR: $2,400.00

LSB#: LSB250525MC028

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .32 Hand Ejector 1st Model Double Action, also known as the Model of 1896

Serial Number: 460 (matching on butt, barrel flat, and rear cylinder face)

Year of Manufacture: 1896 (First Year Production)

Caliber: .32 S&W Long

Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 4 1/4″

Markings:
The left sideplate is marked with the S&W monogram logo. The cylinder is marked between the flutes with patent dates: “May 21, 95; July 16, 95; March 27, 94; May 29, 94; July 1, 84; April 9, 89.” The serial number “460” is found on the butt, barrel flat (accompanied by a star), and the rear face of the cylinder. The yoke and yoke cut are marked with assembly numbers. The barrel has no markings other than those on the flat.

Barrel Configuration & Sights:
The front sight is a pinned round blade. The rear service sight is part of the cylinder stop, pinned forward in the topstrap above the cylinder.

Grip Configuration & Condition:
The revolver is fitted with factory mother-of-pearl grips with deep-dish S&W medallions. As is typical of pearl, the grips are not marked internally. The grips show light handling wear with no major cracks or losses and rate in Very Good–Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Factory refinish in June of 1964 as indicated by the “664” and star marking on the grip frame.

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling where not interrupted by erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition:
This revolver retains about 98% of its nickel finish. There are scattered scratches, scuffs, and small handling marks throughout. The screw on the ejector rod shows light toolmarks/boogering but remains serviceable. The cylinder has a crisp, interrupted turn line. The star following the barrel flat serial number indicates a factory return/refinish. The case colors on the hammer and trigger remain muted. All markings are clear and sharp. Overall, this revolver rates in about Excellent condition for its age.

Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up properly, timing is correct, and the ejector rod system operates smoothly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Accessories: None

Our Assessment:
This Smith & Wesson .32 Hand Ejector 1st Model, better known as the Model of 1896, is one of the most historically significant revolvers in the company’s history. It was the very first swing-out cylinder “Hand Ejector” design, a system that would become the foundation for all of S&W’s revolver production for the next century.

This example, serial number 460, is an extremely early first-year production revolver manufactured in 1896. Its features — the patent dates between the cylinder flutes, the absence of a thumb latch, the lack of an under-barrel locking lug, and the topstrap-mounted cylinder stop — are definitive hallmarks of the first model. The pearl grips with deep-dish medallions add an elegant and period-correct touch, and the high level of finish remaining makes this a standout piece.

For the advanced Smith & Wesson collector, the Model 1896 is essential. With its historical importance, low serial number, and excellent overall condition, this revolver bridges the transition between 19th-century break-top designs and the swing-out hand ejectors that defined the modern revolver. This is a chance to acquire a true cornerstone of S&W’s evolution. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the rifle in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.