Only 3,035 First Model Schofield revolvers were manufactured, all in 1875. 3,000 were purchased by the U.S. Government for use in the West, 35 were sold on the civilian market. The U.S. models are known to have been issued to the 4th Cavalry while they were hunting for Geronimo and the Buffalo Soldiers during the Indian Wars. Most were eventually recalled and sold off due to supply problems since the older stocks of .45 Colt ammunition would not work in the Schofields. Many were altered and used by Wells, Fargo & Co. and various S&W No. 3 variations are known to have been used by legendary western outlaws, lawmen, and soldiers. The members of the James Gang are said to have preferred the Schofield revolvers over all other brands. Had Smith & Wesson complied with the Ordnance Department's request to chamber these revolvers in .45 Colt rather than a proprietary cartridge, they may well have been more widely used than Colt's famous Single Action Army revolver. The Smith & Wesson's were faster and easier to reload and were well regarded by the cavalry troopers. This example has a pinned, round blade front sight, grooved rib and top strap, notch in the latch for a rear sight, "SCHOFIELD'S PAT. APR. 22D 1873" on the right side of the barrel, "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JAN. 7TH/& 24TH 65. JULY 11TH 65. AUG. 24th 69. JULY 25TH 71" on the left side, "L" (Samuel B. Lewis) and "P" on the bottom of the barrel lug with a faint inverted "A" in between, matching serial numbers on the various components, "U.S." at the toe of the butt, and a "JFEC" (J.F.E. Chamberlain) cartouche on the left grip panel.

Extremely fine. 80% plus of the original blue finish remains on the frame and barrel. The hammer and trigger guard have areas of rich case colors, and the cylinder has strong original blue in the flutes and protected areas with the flats a brown and gray patina. There are faint spots of minor old corrosion near the muzzle and on the cylinder and some small scattered handling marks. All numbers are matching including the fine walnut grips which have mild handling marks and edge wear and a clearly legible cartouche. Mechanically excellent with crisp markings. A military model seldom found in such outstanding condition overall.