The History of Smith & Wesson | Gun Talk Nation

Published on April 24, 2024
Duration: 38:57

This video delves into the rich history of Smith & Wesson, tracing its origins from the 1850s through its pivotal role in developing metallic cartridge revolvers and lever-action firearms. It highlights key models like the Model 1, the Registered Magnum, and the Victory Revolver, discussing their historical context, technical innovations, and market impact. The discussion also touches upon the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation and the process of researching historical firearms.

Quick Summary

Smith & Wesson was founded in November 1856 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson. Their first major product was the Model 1 revolver, the world's first metallic cartridge revolver, which successfully combined revolvers with new cartridge technology and was designed for personal defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Early Cartridge Discussion
  2. 00:33Gun Talk Nation Intro & Show Topic
  3. 01:07The Historical Side of Firearms
  4. 01:23Guest Introduction: Firearms Historian
  5. 02:00Why Smith & Wesson? Historical Context
  6. 02:37Development of Cartridge Ammunition
  7. 03:18Smith & Wesson's Rapid Rise (1856-1860)
  8. 04:0119th Century 'Silicon Valley' of Firearms
  9. 04:22The Founding Dates of Smith & Wesson
  10. 04:44The Volcanic Magazine Pistol & Early Company
  11. 05:48Smith & Wesson's Second Venture (1856)
  12. 06:12Flobert Cartridge & Revolver Combination
  13. 07:02The Model 1 Revolver and Modern S&W
  14. 07:37The 1854 Lever Gun & Its Evolution
  15. 08:13History of the Lever Action
  16. 09:06Smith & Wesson's Role in Lever Action
  17. 09:21Volcanic Ammunition Problems
  18. 10:14Smith & Wesson Producing Lever Guns
  19. 10:28Cartridge Calibers for Early Lever Guns
  20. 11:09Guest's Personal Favorite: Model 1
  21. 12:06The .38 Special Cartridge & Model 10
  22. 12:35The Model 1 as a Concealed Carry Gun
  23. 13:59Industrial Revolution & Urban Dangers (1850s)
  24. 14:49Lack of Municipal Police Departments
  25. 15:12Birth of Concealed Carry Weapons
  26. 15:48Success of the Model 1
  27. 16:01Impact of the Civil War on Smith & Wesson
  28. 16:53Model 1 Not a Military Gun, but Popular
  29. 17:03Conflict Drives Gun Sales
  30. 17:32Distributor Demand During the War
  31. 18:01Patent Violations and Seized Guns
  32. 18:25Civil War Era Models (1, 1 1/2, 2)
  33. 18:34Soldiers Buying Backup Guns
  34. 18:54Sponsor Break: Secur, Range Ready, Ballistic Advantage, Ruger, Tisas
  35. 21:51Showcasing Vintage Smith & Wesson Firearms
  36. 22:241936 Smith & Wesson .357 Registered Magnum
  37. 22:37Explaining the 'Registered Magnum' Concept
  38. 23:04Bespoke Firearm Orders
  39. 23:55Registration Card and Certificate
  40. 24:42Original Registered Magnum Production Numbers
  41. 24:50Cost of Bespoke Program & Popularity
  42. 25:07Smith & Wesson Stops Registration
  43. 25:50World War II Production Halt
  44. 26:13Only K-Frame Model 10 Produced During WWII
  45. 26:47Model Number vs. Name Designation
  46. 27:27Post-War Restart and Model 27
  47. 27:42Smith & Wesson Model Numbering System
  48. 29:07Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation Role
  49. 29:24Factory Letter Service Explained
  50. 31:39Discovering Annie Oakley's Revolver
  51. 32:51Documenting Provenance vs. Family Legends
  52. 33:24Limitations of Factory Paperwork (First Stop)
  53. 34:48Collecting Historical Guns: Pawn Shop Finds
  54. 35:35Pawn Shop Find: Pre-Model 10 for Inspector Daniels
  55. 36:37The 'Honest Wear' of Duty Guns
  56. 37:15Identifying 50s/60s Smith & Wessons
  57. 37:45The Story Behind Inspector Daniels' Gun
  58. 38:11Finding the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation
  59. 38:31Recommended Reference: Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson
  60. 38:39Conclusion & Sign-off

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Smith & Wesson founded and what was their first major product?

Smith & Wesson was founded in November 1856 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson. Their first major product was the Model 1 revolver, which was the world's first metallic cartridge revolver, revolutionizing handgun technology.

What is the significance of the Smith & Wesson Model 1 revolver?

The Model 1, introduced in 1857, was a compact .22 rimfire revolver designed for personal defense in the growing urban centers of the 1850s. It marked the successful integration of metallic cartridges with revolvers, setting a new standard for firearms.

How did the Civil War affect Smith & Wesson's sales?

Although not officially adopted as a military arm, the Civil War significantly boosted Smith & Wesson's sales. Increased public fear and demand for personal protection led to high sales of models like the Model 1, 1 1/2, and 2, with distributors often paying cash for available inventory.

What is the Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation and what services do they offer?

The Smith & Wesson Historical Foundation manages the company's corporate archives up to 1967. They offer a valuable factory letter service that provides historical details about specific firearms, including their shipping date, destination, and original factory configuration.

What is the 'Registered Magnum' and why is it significant?

The 'Registered Magnum' was a bespoke firearm offered by Smith & Wesson in the late 1930s, allowing customers to customize barrel length, sights, grips, and finish. It was a premium offering that came with a registration card, highlighting Smith & Wesson's commitment to high-end, personalized firearms.

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