Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless / New Departure (Lemon Squeezer) .38 S&W Calibre Break Action .38 Revolver

1887- 1940 Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless / New Departure (Lemon Squeezer) .38 S&W Calibre Break Action Hammerless Double Action Only Revolver With Grip Safety, Open Cylinders That Will Accept Inert Rounds & Open Over Bored Barrel. D 1521 - D 1521

The Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless or Smith & Wesson New Departure (nicknamed by collectors as the Lemon Squeezer) is a double-action only revolver that was produced from 1887 to 1940 by Smith & Wesson. Based on the Smith & Wesson Model 2 double-action design, the revolver incorporated an internal hammer and an external grip safety on its back-strap. It was chambered in .32 S&W and .38 S&W calibres. These top-break revolvers were designed for fast reloading and concealed carry as the hammer was internal and would not snag on drawing the revolver from a pocket. They were known as "The New Departure" to reflect the company's new approach to designing revolvers. These revolvers were discontinued prior to World War II, being eclipsed by the hand ejector models. This is a very good example in .38 calibre. It has a 3 ½” barrel, original 'S&W' signature gutta percha grips, correct concealed hammer and grip safety which works as they should. The metal work has even patina and is nicely stamped along the barrel rib with the Smith & Wesson, manufacturer's name & 1877-85 S&W Springfield mass USA patents (illustrated). The steel grip frame butt is stamped number '42460'. Deactivated to early UK specification in 1993, it has cut / open chambers which will accept inert rounds and open, over bored barrel. In its present condition the pistol cocks and dry fires correctly in double action. The price includes deactivation certificate and UK delivery. D 1521
£475.00 ...Read full description