Smith & Wesson Model 2

Smith & Wesson Model 2 (Single Action)
Smith & Wesson .38 Single-Action, Second Model
TypeRevolver
Place of originUnited States
Service history
Used byUnited States
Production history
ManufacturerSmith & Wesson
Produced1876-1911
No. builtapprox. 25,548 (1st model), 108,255 (2nd model), 97,000 (3rd model)
Specifications
Caliber.38 S&W Blackpowder
ActionSingle action
Feed system5-round cylinder
SightsFixed

The Smith & Wesson Model 2, also referred to as the Smith & Wesson .38 Single Action, was a .38 caliber revolver produced in both single and double action by Smith & Wesson. The manufacturer's first of that caliber, its 5-shot cylinder was chambered in .38 S&W. The single-action was produced in three varieties from 1876 through 1911, with total production exceeding 223,000 units; the double-action in three variants from 1880 to 1913, with total sales somewhat under one-million guns.

The Model 2 fired a black powder cartridge. It was a "top-break" weapon, with the barrel release catch located on the top of the frame, just in front of the hammer. It was a larger caliber version of the third model of the Smith & Wesson Model 1 1/2.