Smith & Wesson .38 Double Action Second Model .38 S&W Top-Break Revolver, 4 in, Nickel, 5-Shot (1881–1882)
This antique Second Model .38 Double Action stands out with its classic top-break design and simultaneous extraction, a nickel-plated finish, and a 4-inch ribbed barrel. Produced in 1881–1882, it features matching serials on the butt and cylinder, factory-marked barrel rib, and original checkered black hard rubber S&W monogram grips. It is a solid example of an early S&W DA/SA revolver in .38 S&W.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver is in solid shape with various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What's Included
- Smith & Wesson .38 Double Action Second Model revolver
The Second Model configuration is evident in the curved sideplate and the cylinder’s midline groove that indicates two rows of stop notches. This example retains the hallmark top-break frame with simultaneous extraction, pairing fast unloading with a compact five-shot fluted cylinder in .38 S&W.
Key features include a 4-inch ribbed steel barrel, nickel-plated steel finish, and a DA/SA mechanism with an external spurred hammer. The fixed sights consist of a half-moon front blade and a rear notch integral to the top latch, providing a clean, period-correct sight picture.
The round-butt bird’s-head grip frame wears checkered black hard rubber grips with S&W monograms. The barrel rib bears the factory address and patent legend, and the revolver has matching serial numbers on the butt and cylinder, adding desirable originality.
Manufactured in the United States during 1881–1882, this antique Smith & Wesson captures a transitional moment in revolver development with its durable steel construction, nickel finish, and practical carry dimensions.