This revolver is one of 3,000 First Model Schofields purchased by the U.S. Government. They were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo Express agents and many others. During its service life this example was modified for a non-factory shoulder stock to fit the needs of the day. A shoulder stock cut in the back strap has since been plugged and the butt has been twice drilled and tapped (filler screws are present). The U.S. military markings include "US" stamped on the butt, "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face and "L" on the frame. A script letter cartouche is stamped on the left grip panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, cylinder, and both grip panels. The revolver was displayed at the 2015 NRA Single Action Shooting Society exhibit Provenance: The Supica Collection; 2015 NRA Single Action Shooting Society Exhibit

Fine, retaining 60% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance and a smooth artificial brown-gray patina on a cylinder chamber and most of the back strap. Half of the muted original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The refinished grips are very good with a coat of varnish added, dings, scratches and a faint cartouche. Mechanically excellent. An interesting U.S. Smith & Wesson First Model Schofield Revolver that has a story or two to tell.