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Smith and Wesson Firearms


Smith and Wesson Firearms, an American gun manufacturer, was founded in 1852 by Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson.

Innovations pioneered by Smith and Wesson firearms include the self-contained cartridge, rimfire ammunition, the first magnum handgun, and the first all stainless-steel revolver.

Articles on Smith and Wesson Firearms

Smith and Wesson Museum

Smith and Wesson opened the new Smith and Wesson Museum this past June. The museum will house a variety of artifacts and photographs gathered from collections owned by the company and on loan to the Museum from the Connecticut Valley Historical Museum, Cinema Weaponry, private collectors including long-time company historian Roy Jinks, and former and current employees.

Smith and Wesson launches aggressive strategy

Smith and Wesson is a company remade. Gone is the shadow of the “dark days” when production and profits plummeted following the signing of the ill-fated “Clinton Agreement.” That is ancient history. Today, Smith and Wesson has unleashed an ambitious growth strategy that promises to be “loud and visible.” This includes a new market approach, extensive expansion in the handgun market, development of military and law enforcement firearms, expanded licensing, increased exports and the exploration of new market opportunities.

Smith and Wesson rolls out Club 1852

Smith and Wesson recently rolled out the Smith and Wesson Club 1852. According to company officials, the club is a customer loyalty program designed to reward Smith and Wesson firearm owners.

Refurbishing by Smith and Wesson

Smith and Wesson announced in January 2003 a new program in which a customer could send in his or her S&W for refurbishing up to, and beyond, factory spec.

Smith and Wesson is back! recovering from devastating losses, this 151-year-old company is building momentum in the marketplace!

What a difference 20 months makes. For the 151-year-old company, its emergence from the devastating losses of 2000 and part of 2001 is nothing short of remarkable. In March 2000, then-Smith and Wesson President Ed Shultz signed the Clinton Administration’s “Agreement.” The backlash sent the company’s sales plummeting. Many experts thought the company was doomed.

Smith and Wesson: an American icon and one of America’s oldest gunmakers celebrates 150 years!

In 1852, Horace Smith, a toolmaker, and Daniel Wesson, a former apprenticed gunsmith, combined their skills to produce a revolutionary handgun. It used a self-contained cartridge and was capable of being fired multiple times without reloading. More than revolutionary, it was world changing.

Voices of the Smith and Wesson Academy

From all around the country people come to the state-of-the-art Smith and Wesson Academy for courses ranging from basic handgun safety to the intensive “Advanced Defensive Handgun for Personal, Family and Small Group Protection (ADH).”

Articles on Smith and Wesson Handguns

Articles on Smith and Wesson Semi-Automatic Pistols

Smith and Wesson SW-99 Compact

While I am not a big fan of making guns compact “just because,” the SW-99 pulls it off much better than many. I doubt seriously our belts can tell the 2.7 ounce difference in weight, but concealment may be a tad easier and the size is also likely to appeal to those with small hands. So the bottom line is if you like the compact size you’ve got a good choice here.

Smith and Wesson’s Model 41: collectibles, edibles, and a lesson in history

Although the Model 41 is still considered a target pistol, mine is destined for another service — mainly gathering edibles on the trail. With a 5″ barrel, the Model 41 carries nicely on the side in an Uncle Mike’s holster Number 8105-1 Size 5.

Smith and Wesson Model 952: Smith’s newest is a blend of 9mm power and classic accuracy

Shooting the 952 reminds me a little of the Model 52, primarily because of the grip shape, but everything else simply happens faster. With the 52, slide movement was slow and it was possible to feel the several components of the slide cycle. You’d even see the empty case hop leisurely out of the port. Not so with the 952. Slide movement was brisk and empties were thrown well clear. The weight really makes recoil be nearly negligible and the accuracy leaves little to be desired. It has none of the difficulties of the Model 52 and is just as much fun. I believe this is what handgun shooting is all about.

Smith and wesson model compact: Good looking and great shooting, petty finds that there is a lot to like about this new offering from the S&W performance center

The 945-40 is a compact — really compact — single-action pistol with an aluminum alloy frame. In fact, if you put it on top of one of the Current crop of compact 1911 clones, you’ll see that they’re very close to the same size. So while the first 945 is a wonderfully accurate target pistol, the new one is a wonderfully accurate carry gun.

Smith and Wesson Tactical Pistols

Smith and Wesson has added considerably to its line of Third Generation pistols with a Tactical Series that includes guns chambered for 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. The Tactical models have features formerly found only on guns from S&W’s Performance Center. Foremost of these is a change in the slide and frame that provides full length contact between the two parts. The second is a change in the barrel lockup geometry that delays unlocking for a tiny fraction of a second longer.

S&W introduces .380 Sigma – Smith and Wesson

The gun is extremely compact with a 3-inch barrel, 6 inches long, 4 inches high and 1-inch wide. Small enough to fit into the sight channel, but quite visible, is a blade front sight and notch rear sight. There are no external controls, presenting a clean profile with nothing to snag and no manual of arms to perform between drawing and firing the gun.

Articles on Smith and Wesson Revolvers

Smith and Wesson’s New .500 Magnum Revolver

At the 2003 SHOT Show, Smith and Wesson introduced to the shooting industry a new and massive revolver, built on what they refer to as their new X-frame. The new frame was built especially for their newest handgun cartridge: the .500 Smith and Wesson Magnum. The new frame is the largest ever built by Smith and Wesson, but with a few changes is very similar to the double-action design that has proven reliable for over 100 years.

Smith and Wesson’s Monster Magnum

Chambered for an all-new .50-caliber magnum cartridge, the new Smith and Wesson Model 500 double-action revolver needs no hype.

Top Gun: Smith and Wesson crowns the new king of handguns with its Model 500 Smith and Wesson Magnum revolver

With its 8-3/8-in. barrel, the overall length of the Model 500 is 15 in. and the empty weight is 4.5 pounds. The cylinder alone is almost 2 in. in diameter and approaches 2.25 in. in length. Thumb the cylinder open and five charge holes await. Each is 1/2 in. in diameter, and the .50-cal. cartridges they hold are almost 2 in. long. Load five of them and the total weight of the handgun climbs to 5 pounds.

King of the magnums: Smith and Wesson’s .500 master-blaster

There are enough sixgunners desiring the biggest, baddest and latest handgun, that Smith and Wesson’s production line should be kept busy producing Model 500s for a long time. The King is back on the throne. Long Live the King.

50 years of the Smith and Wesson .44 Mag.: it’s hard to believe, but the gun that started it all is no more

The 29 is gone, however the 629 remains in both standard production and Performance Center Models. The original 629 is only available with a 4″ or 6″ barrel. while heavy under lug versions are cataloged with 5″, 6 1/2″, and 8 3/8″ barrels all with round butts.

Smith and Wesson Model 342 PD

I have always been a big fan of pocket revolvers, especially those that wear the Smith and Wesson trail brand, so when I heard the rumor they were crafting their racy looking Centennials from super lightweight, space age titanium, I knew I had to own one.

Smith and Wesson Model 27

The original Model 27 has given way to a new generation of N-frames. Heavy-ribbed and under-lugged barrels replace the visually pleasing slender barrels of past decades. Ergonomics have supplanted elegance in the current generation of target grips. Overall richness of fit and finish has undergone subtle alteration with the transfer to new production technology. While the modern inheritors of the tradition often present significant utilitarian improvement, the visual and tactile impact of the Original Magnum makes us wonder what we have given up in the translation.

Smith and Wesson Safety Hammerless

The enclosed hammer, double-action concept, first applied to the Safety Hammerless in the late 1880s, endures to the present time and its 20th century heirs are already regarded as modern classics.

Smith and Wesson Unholsters Sixgun Classic

For those most interested in singleand double-action sixguns, Smith and Wesson’s new Model 3 Schofield is worthy of large headlines. This is the first single-action introduction from Smith and Wesson since the company dropped the New Model #3 in 1912.

A little bit of magic: Smith and Wesson AirLite Ti

Review of Smith and Wesson’s Titanium .38 revolver.

Smith and Wesson Model 21 .44 Special: stealing some of Clint Smith’s thunder

I honestly thought we would never see a newly manufactured, blue steel, fixed sight, big-bore Smith and Wesson revolver again. But we did, and I’m darn glad I’ve got mine, thanks to Clint and Smith and Wesson.

Articles on Smith and Wesson Ammunition

The .40 Smith and Wesson: this round came along at the right time in the right place

When Smith and Wesson and Winchester teamed up to introduce the .40 Smith and Wesson in 1990 their timing could not have been more opportune.

Smith and Wesson Firearms Patents

Apparatus and method for removing the slide of a semi-automatic pistol

Firearm including biometric skin sensor

Scandium containing aluminum alloy firearm

Firearm having chamber status indicator and firearm retrofitting method

Firearm frame and barrel assembly

Electronically fired revolver utilizing a latch mechanism between trigger and hammer to implement firing

Scandium containing aluminum alloy firearm

Backstrap assembly for an electronic firearm

Revolver-safety lock mechanism

Magazine safety

Firearm having chamber status indicator and firearm retrofitting method

Magazine safety

Backstrap module configured to receive components and circuitry of a firearm capable of firing non-impact fired ammunition

Method of assembling a firearm having a security apparatus

Trigger assembly for use in a firearm having a security apparatus

Security apparatus for use in a firearm

Electronic sight assembly for use with a firearm

Slide assembly for a firearm

Electric firing probe for detonating electrically-fired ammunition in a firearm

Modular firearm and method for making the same

Firing pin block for pistol

Ammunition magazine for use in a firearm adapted for firing non-impact detonated cartridges

Firing probe for use in a non-impact firearm

Electronically fired revolver utilizing percussively actuated cartridges

Security apparatus for authorizing use of a non-impact firearm

Firing control system for non-impact fired ammunition

Authorization module for activating a firearm and method of using same

Firing mechanism for use in a firearm having an electronic firing probe for discharging non-impact fired ammunition

Backstrap module for a firearm

Blast shield apparatus and method of assembly for a revolver

Firearm having an intelligent controller

Angled interlocked firing mechanism

Security apparatus for a firearm

Firing control system for non-impact fired ammunition

Process for treating metal workpieces

Firearm frame and barrel assembly method of assembling and assembly tool

Biometrically activated lock and enablement system

Firearm having chamber status indicator and firearm retrofitting method

Trigger guard-engaging gun lock

Method of manufacturing an electrode assembly for electrochemically etching rifling in gun barrels

Firearm with releasably retained sight assembly

Method for reversibly converting a traditional double action pistol to a single action target pistol

Semi-automatic pistol

Magazine cartridge guide

Handgun

Integral butt plate with latch and catch mechanisms for pistol magazine

Two-piece trigger

Magazine butt plate

Magazine safety

Butt plate assembly for handgun magazines

Frame plug for semi-automatic handguns

Handgun

Handgun of improved ergonomic construction

Front sight retention means for handguns

Safety trigger for a firearm

Recoil mechanism for handguns

Fire control mechanism for semiautomatic pistols

Rear sight for a handgun

Square extractor for the removal of cartridge cases from the chambers of a revolver

Hinged handcuffs

Fail safe stop for a drill press control device

Pistol grip

Decocking mechanism for a semi-automatic firearm

Slide decelerator for a firearm

Removable front sight for handguns

Removable front sight for handguns

Cartridge magazine for semi-automatic firearms

Integral grip construction for handguns

Retainer for revolver yoke stud

Reversible magazine catch mechanism for handguns

Grip for handgun

Key for handcuffs

Holster for a chemical tear gas projector

Flexible leaf contact system for night vision optical instruments

Night vision scope

Stop system for the focus of an optical instrument

Mounting arrangement for a rifle scope

Warning light for emergency vehicles

Dual purpose projectile and weapon combination

Dual purpose projectile and weapon combination

Dual range projectile and launching device and disposable launching tube assembly therefor

Illuminated reticle projection system

Smith and Wesson Firearms Manuals

Model 22A/22S Sport Series Target Pistols

945 Series Pistols

Metal Frame Centerfire Pistols

Revolvers – Modern Style

Model 3 Schofield

Sigma Pistols

Model SW99/SW990/SW99 QA Pistols

Model 1911 Series

Model 41

Books on Smith and Wesson Firearms

The Gun Digest Book of Smith and Wesson
The Gun Digest Book of Smith and Wesson

Smith and Wesson is one of the world’s most recognizable and innovative gun manufacturers. Today’s active shooters, gunsmiths and collectors have a particular interest in the guns that have been used by nearly every major law and military agency in the world. This definitive resource reviews Smith and Wesson guns on a model-by-model basis, giving enthusiasts a brief history, a review of technical specifications, and a report on test shooting and performance for each.

The book covers all categories of Smith and Wesson arms, including revolvers, automatic pistols and long guns. A special chapter gives readers a tour of the Smith and Wesson factory and corporation, and other features include a look at competition uses, Smith and Wesson rarities, and use of the weapons in law enforcement.

Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson
Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson

Collectors of Smith and Wesson products cannot be without this book! More than 775 models of guns and variations produced by Smith and Wesson since 1857 are completely listed according to model and year of manufacture with accurate, updated prices in up to five grades of condition. Production and historical notes provide important background data for determining rarity.

Many models found in this book are not found in other firearm-pricing guides making this the most comprehensive list of Smith and Wesson products and prices available. The finest Smith and Wesson collectibles are showcased in sixteen full-color pages.

The History of Smith and Wesson Firearms
The History of Smith and Wesson Firearms

This fascinating book provides a detailed history of one of the most famous, and controversial, firearms manufacturers, and its products. Smith and Wesson was founded in 1852 by two men, Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson who shared a dream of developing a new type of firearm, one capable of being fired repeatedly without the annoyance of having to reload with loose powder, ball, and primer. Their ideas moved firearms manufacturing out of the muzzleloading era that had dominated the industry since the invention of the hand cannon in the 14th century.

Since then, the company has produced countless pistols and revolvers that have become standard issue to police and armed forces throughout the world, and which have also been used by sport shooters and criminals. In addition, these famous firearms have been featured in several sensational Hollywood movies, including Dirty Harry. Complete with more than 200 full-color photographs, this stunning book describes the range of Smith and Wesson firearms in detail, and features cutaway drawings to show the mechanisms, along with detailed technical evaluations. As well as being of interest to enthusiasts and historians, it will be an excellent reference work and an invaluable guide for collectors.

Smith and Wesson Six Guns of the Old West
Smith and Wesson Six Guns of the Old West

Countless photos and detailed technical drawings. The Schofields, The Americans, The Russians, The New Model #3s, and The DAs. Here in a single large volume is a very comprehensive history of the Model Three going back to the Robbins and Lawrence factory where we are reasonably certain Daniel Smith met Horace Wesson around 1850. It tracks their progress through their first company, where they invented what became the Winchester 13 years later, the development of the first practical cartridge firearms (the Smith and Wesson Model One) through the Two’s, One and a Half’s, and finally the Model Threes. It’s all here in a comprehensive entertaining manner accompanied by fabulous photographs and diagrams.

This book is also a gunsmith’s dream with page after page of carefully written and illustrated information on how to diagnose and repair every Model Three AND every modern Model Three copy. In addition there are chapters on ammunition and, for the shooter, loading and reloading. Did I say comprehensive? Well written? Beautifully illustrated? Awesome? A long over due and welcomed volume.

DVD’s on Smith and Wesson Firearms

Tales of the Gun: Guns of Smith and Wesson
Tales of the Gun: Guns of Smith and Wesson

They laid the groundwork for the Winchester Repeating Rifle and put a cartridge 6-shooter in the West years before Colt’s Peacemaker. Their spirit of innovation has led handgun technology for over a century. Meet Horace Smith and Daniel Baird Wesson, and see why the company forged from their partnership remains at the industry’s vanguard.