S&W Model 1891 Single Shot Pistols

[Eagleeye69]

I searched the CGN forums and couldn't come up with anything on this rare, unique and intriguing pistol, so am starting this thread to find other owners in Canada and hopefully share some photos for everyone to enjoy and learn something in the process.

I recently purchased this from an estate sale and was told that I am now the second owner. This particular pistol is the 1891 Third Perfected Model. I've done a bit of research and the serial number puts the date of manufacture at about 1920. I have requested a letter from the S&W Historical Foundation to get the actual date of delivery and any additional information they may have on record. The grips are serialized to match the frame, unfortunately the original box and papers have long gone. This example is in incredible condition considering it has been stored, used and moved around for nearly 100 years! I would never declare that it is unfired, but it is clean inside and out and is as tight as new. Just be clear...I plan to shoot it this weekend! Why buy a gun and not shoot it?

I won't bother writing the complete history of this model, but there were four models build for a total of less than 12,000 units from 1893 - 1936. For a great description and photos of each of the models, refer to the Standard Catalogue of Smith & Wesson. They were produced in various barrel lengths and chambers. This is the 10" 22LR configuration.

Here's a few pictures, share and enjoy.

 

[Lee Enfield]

Your very nice 3rd model single shot is not a Model 1891.

The first model single shot is a Model 1891 which is a converted .38 Single action revolver (a miniature New Model 3) and has a recoil shield for the cylinder.

The Model 1891 was originally a revolver with available spare single shot barrels (in a variety of calibers and lengths), and later as a dedicated single shot pistol.

Think of an 19th century version of a Dan Wesson Pistol Pack.

The Second Model Single Shot is essentially the same (1891) revolver frame, simply with the recoil shield milled off.

Your (3rd or 4th model) single shot is based on the "perfected" model revolver, which utilized modern type lock work located in a top break frame - probably an effort to use up already manufactured small frame top break barrels & parts.

 

[Eagleeye69]

I agree. You are technically correct. Thanks for the additional details.
It will be interesting to see what history S&W can provide. I will post a copy of their letter when it comes in.
Does anyone know how many may be around in Canada? All I know is that I've been around shooting ranges and going to gun shows for many years and have never seen one in-person until now.

 

[Craig0ry]

Figured I'd bump this old thread instead of starting a new one.
I'm out visiting the in-laws, and my Wife's great Grandfather is a big gun guy, so I've always got along with him. I've never made it to the end of his collection yet, he always seems to be pulling out new things. This time is was a 1891 1st Model Single shot S&W, missing the trigger guard In pretty rough shape over all, he asked if he thought I could source one, but after doing a whole bunch of research last night and today I think it will pretty much be impossible. very neat gun though. I'll try and get some photos uploaded later here. If anyone has one that would be willing to take some pictures of their trigger guard that would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Craig0ry]

 

[9.3 Hunter]

Beauty revolvers gents

 

[DaveF]

'The following information Smith & Wesson single shot target pistols comes from Smith & Wesson Hand Guns by Roy C. McHenry and Walter F. Roper.'​

'The Mexican Model presented two variations. It had no bow-trigger guard or even an orthodox spur guard forming a part of the frame—as in the 1880—but a spur guard which was grafted to the frame. Also, the hammer had no half-c@@k notch, but this did not matter greatly in view of the rebounding hammer. Serial number of this model were included with the 1891 single-action .38.'

In your photo there don't appear to be any holes in the frame to accommodate cross-pins to secure a trigger guard as on a say a Model 3, so if the pistol is chambered in .38, has no half-c@@k notch and a rebounding hammer it's possible it's a variation of a Mexican Model.
Just a thought on a very interesting S&W...

 

[Craig0ry]

'The following information Smith & Wesson single shot target pistols comes from Smith & Wesson Hand Guns by Roy C. McHenry and Walter F. Roper.'​

'The Mexican Model presented two variations. It had no bow-trigger guard or even an orthodox spur guard forming a part of the frame—as in the 1880—but a spur guard which was grafted to the frame. Also, the hammer had no half-c@@k notch, but this did not matter greatly in view of the rebounding hammer. Serial number of this model were included with the 1891 single-action .38.'

In your photo there don't appear to be any holes in the frame to accommodate cross-pins to secure a trigger guard as on a say a Model 3, so if the pistol is chambered in .38, has no half-c@@k notch and a rebounding hammer it's possible it's a variation of a Mexican Model.
Just a thought on a very interesting

 

[Craig0ry]

I believe if has half cack, looks like there was supposed to be one at one time.

 

[zywina]

Go to S@W forum, if anyone can find a trigger guard for that gun, will be the folks over at S&W Forum. Good luck

 

[Craig0ry]

Go to S@W forum, if anyone can find a trigger guard for that gun, will be the folks over at S&W Forum. Good luck

I did join it a few nights ago now, i'll post a want add come spring when I start heading back down south