Help with dating - S&W OF91
I have an heirloom which has been in my family for several generations. The markings across the top of the barrel are as follows:
Left:
Smith and Wesson
Springfield Mass USA
Middle:
MODELOF91
Right:
PAT'D APP 90.75.FEB
200 DEC 18 77 MAY 11 80
A few digits could be wrong, like the 200, but the model number is clear. Serial number on the butt is 19xxx
The only reference I can find so far is a gun with the same model number but it is not a revolver. Any information would be appreciated!
Also, I am not a gun expert (by any means) and maybe someone can help with this: I have not opened it in a few years (meaning, unlatched the barrel it as if to load it) and it is a little difficult to pull open now. If I am not mistaken, I should grasp the two little nubs on either side and pull straight back toward the trigger. It's definitely not rusted out or anything, just can't pull it back now. Is there something else I can do, like lubrication or something?
Left:
Smith and Wesson
Springfield Mass USA
Middle:
MODELOF91
Right:
PAT'D APP 90.75.FEB
200 DEC 18 77 MAY 11 80
A few digits could be wrong, like the 200, but the model number is clear. Serial number on the butt is 19xxx
The only reference I can find so far is a gun with the same model number but it is not a revolver. Any information would be appreciated!
Also, I am not a gun expert (by any means) and maybe someone can help with this: I have not opened it in a few years (meaning, unlatched the barrel it as if to load it) and it is a little difficult to pull open now. If I am not mistaken, I should grasp the two little nubs on either side and pull straight back toward the trigger. It's definitely not rusted out or anything, just can't pull it back now. Is there something else I can do, like lubrication or something?
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I would have to research it some more, but at first glance it appears to be a Smith & Wesson New Model Number Three. The serial number is also in that time frame. What caliber is it?
In answer to your opening the revolver question, you lift the kurled knobs straight up to open the action.0 -
This is really strange! I have a Smith Model of 91 but it's a single shot .22rf. These were built on a revolver frame in various calibers and barrel lengths. It may be that your barrel came from one of the single shots. Check ALL of your serial numbers to see if they match.
The serial number is on front of the grip strap and also on the back of the extractor, and on the bottom of the barrel latch. I also have a factory letter saying it left the factory in 1901.
According to Kull's book there were only just over 800 made in 22rf caliber.
Here's top of barrel markings.
Sorry I don't have more info for you.
Best regards ~ ~ ~ Shansei450 -
You have a Smith & Wesson .38 Single Action, Third Model, also known as the 1891 or No 2 Third Model. About 26850 made from 1891 til 1911. They made the first model .22 single shot Shansei illustrates on the same frame in the same serial number range. There were even combination sets with single shot and revolver barrels sold together or added later.
Yours looks kind of neglected, but there is not much wear under the rust. I would rub it down hard with oil to keep it from deteriorating any more. Extra fine steel wool 0000 grade and oil will get some of that rust off and not scratch up the steel too bad.
Open the action by getting the hammer at half cock and lifting the latch UP.0
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