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, and 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 models. 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, "U.S." at the toe of the butt, and cylinder numbered to the gun along with "L" stamped on the rear face. Provenance: The Dr. Gerald Klaz Collection