Smith & Wesson S&W Model 3 Schofield of 2000 Single Action 7″ Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
WOA#: WY240516MB002
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Gen 3 3rd Model Schofield
Serial Number: GWS0491
Year of Manufacture: 2000
Caliber: .45 S&W Schofield
Action Type: 6-Shot, Single Action, Top-Break Revolver
Markings: The barrel is marked, “SCHOFIELD’S PAT. APR.22D 1873” on the right side, the left side is marked, “.45 S & W” with Springfield’s address and patent dates. The front sight blade is marked, “Mod. 3 Schofield 1875 / Performance Center” The bottom of the grip frame is marked, “US GWS0491”
Barrel Length: 7”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half moon blade, the rear sight is a U-notch integral to the locking tab.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut brass screw holes. There is no notable wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is a light turn line. The action has very faint wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The single-action trigger is crisp. The cylinder lockup has minor side-to-side play on all six chambers. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with a matching Performance Center Wooden Display case, Model 3 Schofield Coin, trigger lock, shipping box, styrofoam inserts, S&W vapor barrier paper. A private copy of “The Horse Soldiers Revolver” By Roy G. Jinks, A Color layout of the Schofield Model 3 from Smith and Wesson w/ Specifications
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Gen 3 Model 3 Schofield Single Action Revolver is a modern reproduction of one of the most iconic firearms of the late 19th century. Originally designed by Major George W. Schofield, this revolver was an evolution of Smith & Wesson’s Model 3, incorporating improvements that made it more suitable for military use. The Schofield revolver is known for its top-break design, allowing for faster reloading compared to other revolvers of its time. The Gen 3 reproduction retains the classic aesthetics and mechanical design of the original Schofield, making it a popular choice for collectors, historical reenactors, and cowboy action shooters. It is chambered in .45 S&W Schofield, the original chambering for this revolver. One of the most distinctive features of the Schofield revolver is its top-break action. The barrel and cylinder are hinged at the front, and a latch at the rear of the top strap allows the shooter to break open the revolver, which simultaneously ejects all spent cartridges. This design significantly speeds up the reloading process compared to the more common side-loading gate found on other revolvers of the era, such as the Colt Single Action Army.
The Schofield was used by a number of notable individuals, including Western outlaws and lawmen, such as Jesse James, John Wesley Hardin, Pat Garrett, Theodore Roosevelt, Virgil Earp, Billy the Kid, and many other American tall tale inspirations such as Frank James’ who’s 1875 Smith & Wesson 2nd Model Schofield revolver #5476 Sold through C&T Auctioneers and Valuers. Schofield revolver. The U.S. Army adopted the . 44 S&W American caliber Model 3 revolver in 1870, making it the first standard-issue, cartridge-firing revolver in U.S. service.
As far as theatrical adventures go we first must mention “Shane” of 1953 one of the first movies to use the Schofield for their character , Yank Potts played by Howard Negley. In “Unforgiven” Clint Eastwood himself carries a Schofield revolver as William Munny alongside The Schofield Kid portrayed by Jaimz Woolvett in 1992.
“Tombstone” is one of our favorites and Wyatt fires his Cavalry during the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. For some reason Costner tends to fire handguns way above his eyeline. Some historians believe Wyatt actually was using a Smith and Wesson Schofield during the shootout instead of his Cavalry. We do get to see the character of Virgil Earp portrayed by Sam Elliott wield his Schofield in full form in that 1993 classic. Even the coward Bob Ford packed a pistol like this as he rode aside the famed Jesse James who were both elegantly portrayed in the 2007 film “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”.
Historically, the Schofield revolver saw significant use in the American West and was favored by many notable figures, including lawmen, outlaws, and soldiers. Its faster reloading capability made it a practical choice for mounted cavalry units, and it was officially adopted by the U.S. Army in the 1870s. Despite being eventually overshadowed by other revolvers, the Schofield left a lasting legacy and remains a symbol of the Old West. The Gen 3 reproduction of the Model 3 Schofield allows modern shooters and collectors to own a piece of this history. It combines the charm and authenticity of the original with the benefits of modern craftsmanship, making it a reliable and enjoyable firearm for a variety of uses. Whether displayed as a collectible, used in historical reenactments, or enjoyed in shooting sports, the Schofield revolver continues to captivate enthusiasts with its unique design and storied past. These were made in limited production and will not come around often. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. -K.F.
