US S&W No. 1 M1857 Revolver

By Crusader1307

The first Firearms manufactured in 1857 by The Smith and Wesson Firearms Company, was their Patented No. 1 Revolver. Popular between 1857 and 1882, it was considered a “Hideaway” or “Pocket Pistol”. Used for self-defense, The Model. 1 was very popular during The American Civil War on both sides. Although not an issued weapon, it’s $10.00 price was eagerly paid by Soldiers early on. A Blackpowder weapon, it had a Frame break which allowed the cylinder to be removed for cleaning and loading. The No. 1 fired (7) .22 Caliber Lead Shots. As a close quarters weapon, The No. 1 was effective up to 200-feet. As with other versions, The No. 1 featured a triggerless component, which extended when the hammer was pulled back. Variants made after The War in 1865, featured rim fired shells. It also became a popular “Gamblers Piece” and was also quite popular with “Saloon Girls”.  The popularity waned for The No. 1 after 1882, but it was still seen sporadically as late as the 1900s.