Original Antique U.S. Smith & Wesson Model 1 1⁄2 1st Issue Revolver in .32 Rimfire Converted to “Belly Buster” – Serial 7161 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very interesting example of an American classic, first introduced in 1865 and produced continuously until 1892. The Smith & Wesson Model 1 1⁄2 was Smith & Wesson’s second .32 caliber revolver, intended to combine the small size and convenience of the .22 caliber Model 1 with the larger caliber of the 6-shot “belt sized” Model 2, which was introduced in 1860. Chambered in .32 cal., its cylinder held 5 shots. It was produced in three varieties, termed “issues” by S&W, with total production exceeding 223,000.

The First Issue Model 1 1⁄2 had a smooth cylinder and a non-fluted barrel, as well as a flat bottomed “square” grip. Models were available in blued or nickel-plated finishes, and the majority were produced with 3 1/2 -inch barrels. A less common 4-inch barrel variety was also sold. Chambered for .32 rimfire ammunition, approximately 26,000 were produced. The later second issue of the Model 1 1⁄2 can be identified by its fluted cylinder and barrel, as well as the rounded “birds head” shape of the grip butt.

This example of the Model 1 1⁄2, 1st Issue Revolver was most likely originally made with a 3 1/2″ barrel, with the standard blued finish and finished rosewood grips. Produced by Smith and Wesson from 1865-1868, this was the firm’s first iteration of the .32 rimfire tip-up, a more utilitarian design that the later 2nd issue. After production, the barrel was cut down to just under an inch in length, with the ejector pin cut down as well. Guns such as these were designed for extreme close range, and were called “Belly Busters” based on where they were usually aimed. At that range a longer barrel for accuracy became meaningless, and in fact would be a hindrance.

It still retains much of the original blued finish on the sides of the frame, and the grips were replaced with custom made walnut examples, without the usual fittings for the screw. It also looks like the main spring was replaced, which probably explains why the hammer action is a bit weak. Most likely this revolver suffered damage to the barrel, possibly from a stuck cartridge, and it was later repurposed to its current configuration.

Due to the barrel having been mostly removed, the original markings were completely removed. 1st Issue guns were serial numbered sequentially, with numbers ranging from 1 to approximately 26,300. Serial number on this example is 7161, placing it quite early in production, probably about 1866. This number is found on the bottom of the grip, and there is also assembly number • • 3 on the grip frame, rear of the barrel, and front side of the cylinder (faint), so those parts are all original to the revolver.

Condition overall is very good, still retaining much of the original bluing on the rear of the frame, while the rest of the finish is faded to a plum patina. The replacement walnut grips are very nice, definitely well made and in very good condition. The revolver cycles, but it is definitely finicky and sticks sometimes. There is some rifling left in the bore, but with a 7/8″ barrel it really wouldn’t make much of a difference.

A very interesting modified Smith & Wesson Model 1 1⁄2, ready to research and display! 

Specifications:

Years of Manufacture: circa 1866
Caliber: .32cal
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 7/8 inches
Overall Length:5 3/8 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: 5 Shot Revolver

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