S&W Favorite

Published on October 29, 2025
Duration: 2:10

This video details the Smith & Wesson Favorite, a rare double-action revolver technically known as the New Model Navy. It highlights its unique features, including a lighter construction, a fancy front sight, and barrel address moved to the cylinder. The firearm's history is traced back to a potential Russian Navy contract that never materialized, leading to its assembly and sale in the late 1880s/early 1890s as a high-end variant.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Favorite, technically the New Model Navy, is a rare double-action revolver known for its lighter construction achieved by milling internal components. It features a fancy front sight and barrel markings moved to the cylinder. Its production is tied to a failed Russian Navy contract, with units released to the market in the late 1880s/early 1890s.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Gun's Many Names: New Model Navy
  2. 00:08Double-Action Functionality
  3. 00:18Absence of Hammer Interlock
  4. 00:37Marketed as Smith & Wesson's Favorite
  5. 00:44Lightened Construction and Pearl Grips
  6. 00:50Russian Navy Contract History
  7. 01:10Late 1880s/Early 1890s Release
  8. 01:18Single-Action vs. Double-Action Revolver
  9. 01:26Internal Milling for Weight Reduction
  10. 01:34External Features: Fluting and Sight
  11. 01:47Cylinder Markings
  12. 01:56Top-Break and Simultaneous Ejection
  13. 02:01Rarity of Double-Action Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the technical name for the Smith & Wesson Favorite revolver?

The Smith & Wesson Favorite is technically known as the Smith & Wesson New Model Navy. This designation indicates its double-action capability and distinguishes it from earlier single-action models.

Why is the Smith & Wesson Favorite considered rare?

The Smith & Wesson Favorite is rare because double-action revolvers were generally less popular than single-action models during their production era. Additionally, its history involves a stalled contract, leading to limited initial production.

What are some distinctive features of the Smith & Wesson Favorite?

Key features include a lighter construction achieved through internal milling, a fancy front sight, barrel address moved to the cylinder, and often a nickel finish with factory pearl grips.

What is the historical context behind the Smith & Wesson Favorite's production?

The firearm's production is linked to a potential contract with the Russian Navy that never materialized. Parts were manufactured, and the revolvers were later assembled and sold to the market in the late 1880s or early 1890s.

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