Manufactured from 1879 to 1887, the Model 320 revolving rifle is one of the rarest Smith & Wesson firearms produced. These firearms were serial numbered from 1 to 977 and out of the 977 manufactured, 514 had the 18 inch barrel. The Model 320 was manufactured using the frame, cylinder and basic action of the New Model No. 3 revolver with some minor differences in the hammer and trigger and with the barrel being made of two-pieces. A slot is cut into the butt and a hole drilled in the back strap to accommodate the shoulder stock. The 18 inch barrel features a blade front sight, two leaf rear sight and two-line address/patent dates marking (partially legible). Matching serial numbers on the butt, barrel and barrel latch. The forearm and grips are checkered mottled hard rubber. The shoulder stock features nickel plated attaching iron and a checkered hard rubber buttplate with the Smith & Wesson monogram.

Very fine, retaining 95% original nickel plating remaining with flaking on the balance. 40% case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The barrel rib rollmark is a partial light strike but is original. The forearm and grips are excellent with limited handling marks and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent. The stock is fine with the attaching hardware retaining 97% original nickel finish and numerous minor handling marks on the walnut. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.