It was produced in three varieties from 1865 through 1892, with total production exceeding 223,000. The first two (known as the first and second issues) were "tip-up" revolvers with the barrel release catch located on the side of the frame in front of the trigger, while the third (known as the "Model 1 1/2 Single Action Revolver") was a "top-break", with the barrel release catch located on the top of the frame, just in front of the hammer. The first issue of the Model 1 1/2 can be identified by its smooth cylinder (lacking fluting), and the square shape of the grip butt. It had order 30" Barrel Special Order Barrel which was clearly built using a Winchester Model 1866 Barrel. The same thing occurs with early Winchester Model 1892 carbines that used 1873 barrels, buttplates, and bands to fill early orders when dedicated parts weren't yet ready. This is one of the first ones with the oval sideplate and the serial number is 753 which dates to Circa 1880.
|