This exceptional Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Single Action revolver was manufactured c. 1875. This revolver has the flat top barrel catch which, along with the serial number, is the primary means of distinguishing a First Model Schofield from a Second Model Schofield revolver. This top break, single action, revolver has a square butt, frame mounted barrel latch, and ribbed barrel with grooved top and half-moon front sight blade. The hammer has fine, borderless knurling on the spur. The barrel, cylinder and frame have the S&W high polish blue finish, and the hammer, trigger guard and trigger are color casehardened. The two-piece walnut grips are oil-finished. The serial number "2467" is visible on the butt and on the rear face of the cylinder. A "U.S." property mark is stamped on the butt. The left side of the ejector housing is roll-stamped with the S&W address and 1865-1871 patent dates, and the right side is roll-stamped: "+ SCHOFIELD'S PAT. APR. 22D, 1878+". A small "L" Ordnance sub-inspection mark is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug, rear face of the cylinder, inside of the frame and right grip heel. A small "P" is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug and on the rear face of the cylinder. The left grip is stamped with the Ordnance final inspection mark which consists of the script initials "JFEC" surrounded by a rectangle with rounded ends. The Ordnance Department purchased approximately 3,000 First Model Schofield revolvers. Some of these revolvers were issued to the famous Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments and Col. Ranald Mackenzie's crack 4th Cavalry regiment. All of these regiments were stationed on the Texas frontier.

Extremely fine. This revolver is all original and retains 85% plus of the original S&W high polish blue finish. The finish is thin on the bottom of the barrel and has edge wear at the muzzle. The blue of the cylinder high points is thin, and there is the usual drag line between the cylinder stops. The most significant finish wear is on the back strap which retains about 75% of the high polish blue finish. The hammer and trigger guard retain at least 90% of the muted, dove-gray case colors. The case colors on the trigger have 50% remaining with the balance a silver-patina. The grips remain excellent with a crisp final inspection mark. All of the barrel, frame and cylinder markings are crisp. The action is tight and functions perfectly. This is an outstanding example of a scarce S&W First Model Schofield Single Action revolver.