Originally manufactured for the U.S. military circa 1876-77 with total production approximately 5,934, this very interesting and historically significant U.S. S&W Schofield revolver later received a very rare target conversion to .450 Boxer for use at the NRA's Imperial Meetings. The conversion consists of an additional plate added to the recoil shield to reduce the head space and modified sights. First held at Wimbledon Common in 1860 with the inaugural shot fired by Queen Victoria, the Imperial Meetings were initially opened to only regular and reserve military personnel competing with issued service small arms. The competition moved to Bisley Camp in 1890 and is today one of world's leading shooting competitions open to all who qualify. Revolvers classed as Military Revolver were mandated to carry British government ammunition. To compete therefore required the U.S. Army's Schofield chambered in .45 S&W to be converted to a British service cartridge. The .450 Boxer was the British Army's first centerfire revolver cartridge circa late 1860s and considered obsolete in 1880 but remained in service as late as World War I. The revolver retains the U.S. Ordnance sub-inspector stamps "W" and "P" on the underside of the barrel lug and rear cylinder face. "US" is stamped on the butt, and the number "9004" is stamped on the bottom of the left grip panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Many Schofield revolvers were issued to the 4th Cavalry which saw service in the "Geronimo Campaign" and the famous 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry comprised of the "Buffalo Soldiers" stationed in the American Southwest. Pictured in the 4th edition of Supica and Nahas' "Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson" on page 113. Provenance: The Supica Collection

Fine as period converted to .450 Boxer for the historic Imperial Meeting target competitions, retaining 50% plus original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. The grips are also fine with minor handling marks. Slight play in the cylinder when the hammer is fully cocked, otherwise action functions fine. A historically significant and very rare U.S. Second Model Schofield Revolver converted to .450 Boxer specifically for NRA Imperial Meeting target competitions that is a must have for the serious S&W collector.