WWI S&W .455 Hand Ejector Second Model Mark II, 6.5 inch Blued DA/SA Revolver — British/Commonwealth Contract, 1916 — Serial 57208
This Smith & Wesson .455 Hand Ejector Second Model is a British/Commonwealth Mark II contract revolver produced in 1916 for wartime service. Chambered in .455 Webley with a 6.5 inch tapered barrel, it reflects the simplified Second Model configuration adopted for speed of production during WWI. It is a notable contract piece from the large 1915–1917 procurement and stands as the direct progenitor to the U.S. Model 1917 .45 ACP revolver. Butt serial number: 57208.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Rifling: Poor Rifling - Rifling heavily worn or filled with fouling or debris.
Specific Condition Notes: The top of the frame is bulged above the cylinder. The cylinder is ruptured, with only half remaining. This revolver is offered as a gunsmith special and is sold as is.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson .455 Hand Ejector Second Model Mark II revolver
Part of a massive wartime order for British and Commonwealth forces between 1915 and 1917, this Mark II contract revolver represents S&W’s WWI production for the Allied effort. Total contract quantities are estimated at approximately 69,700–75,000 units, placing this example within a significant and well-documented historical run.
The Second Model is a wartime-simplified variant that omits the third lock and uses an unshrouded ejector rod to streamline manufacture. Built on Smith & Wesson’s large N-frame with a lanyard ring, it was designed for service durability and straightforward field use.
Configuration is classic WWI S&W: a 6.5 inch tapered carbon-steel barrel, blued finish, fixed half-moon front sight, and a fixed notch rear sight in the topstrap. The checkered walnut service stocks feature S&W medallions and a diamond grip screw escutcheon.
Chambered in .455 Webley and operating in double-action/single-action, this revolver aligns with British/Commonwealth ammunition and training of the period. Made in the United States in 1916, it is a direct predecessor to the American Model 1917 .45 ACP revolver that followed.
Given its condition and the included note that it is a gunsmith special sold as is, this example is well-suited for salvaged parts or as a decorative piece with clear WWI contract provenance.