This is an example of a Smith & Wesson 1st Model Schofield single action revolver that was manufactured in 1875 with a total production of only about 3,000. This revolver has the "U.S." property stamp on the butt and Ordnance inspection marks on the barrel, cylinder, frame and grips. The revolver has the S&W high polish blue finish on the barrel, frame and cylinder, casehardened trigger guard, hammer and frame latch and is fitted two piece oil-finished walnut grips. The barrel has a blade front sight and a notch in the barrel latch serves as the rear sight. The left side of the barrel lug is marked with the two line address/patent dates and "SCHOFIELD'S PAT. APR. 22D 1873" on the right side flanked by Maltese Crosses. The serial number is located on the butt and the rear face of the cylinder. The "L" inspection mark of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Samuel B. Lewis is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug, the inside of the frame, and the rear face of the cylinder. A "P" proofmark is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug and on the rear of the cylinder face. The right side of the frame is equipped with a Kelton type thumb safety. The safety is attached with one screw and functions as a thumb activated interlocking safety. Information on the Kelton safety is somewhat limited, however what is known is that the Ordnance Department fitted approximately 25 revolvers with a safety hammer device invented by Col. John C. Kelton who was serving as Assistant Adjutant General. See Jinks and Neal Smith & Wesson book 1857-1945 page 219. Also see page 231 for pictures of an identical thumb safety also on a First Model Schofield. The accompanying factory letter states that this revolver was shipped from the factory on July 12, 1875, and delivered to the United States National Armory in Springfield, MA. The revolver was shipped with a 7 inch barrel, blue finish and walnut grips. The letter states that the Kelton thumb safety was added by Springfield Armory.

Very fine. The revolver retains 60% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. There is some light spotting on the cylinder and right side of the barrel lug, and overall there are scattered minor scratches and dings. The grips are also very good with some wear on the lower edges, and a few minor dents and dings. A faint cartouche is visible on the lower left panel. The markings are clear. The action is fine. Overall a very unique example of a First Model Schofield equipped with the extremely rare Kelton thumb safety.