This is a rare and desirable example of a Smith & Wesson four-screw J-frame revolver produced on government contract for the U.S. Air Force known by collectors as the coveted Baby Aircrewman. The revolvers were intended for use by flight crews as survival weapons in the event of an emergency. Smith & Wesson reportedly manufactured 605 J-frame Aircrewmen, and, like this example, they fall into the A.F.NO. 1795 to A.F.NO. 2399 serial number range. (Smith & Wesson also manufactured a version based on the five-screw K-frame, which fall into the serial number range A.F. NO. 1190 to A.F. NO.1794. The Baby Aircrewman model was subsequently rejected because of problems with the alloy cylinder and most were destroyed by the government with very few examples surviving. Smith & Wesson experts and authors of "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson", Jim Supica and Richard Nahas, estimate that 10 to 15 revolvers survived. The revolver has a 2 inch barrel numbered to the gun on the underside, 5-shot alloy cylinder numbered to the gun on the rear face and marked "8" under the ejector, alloy J-frame with four screws and checkered grips with U.S. Air Force medallions. These Air Force medallions are only found on the A.F. NO. numbered guns. The grips are numbered 1966. The barrel is marked "SMITH & WESSON" on the left side and "AIRCREWMAN/38 SPECIAL CTG." on the right side. The frame is marked with the four line Smith & Wesson marking on the right side and the S&W logo is on the left side. A "P" proofmark is stamped over the trigger guard on the left side. The inside of the frame and crane have matching assembly numbers ("162").The smooth back strap is marked "PROPERTY OF U.S. AIR FORCE." The hammer and trigger are casehardened. The "A.F.No.2167" serial number is marked on the butt. This is a true Smith & Wesson "Baby Aircrewman" survivor, one of the most highly desirable and sought-after U. S. martial handguns ever produced, one that will be a valued addition to any S&W or military collection!

Exceptionally fine, retaining 90% original blue finish mixed with a areas of gray patina, some light edge wear and a cylinder drag line. There is some mild-minor pitting on the barrel. 99% plus original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are excellent with minimal handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. A highly prized military "Baby Aircrewman" revolver that would greatly enhance even the most advanced Smith & Wesson or U.S. military collection! Provenance: Former Eric Archer Collection, private collection of S&W Collectors Association officer.