POTD: Top Break and Revolving Rifle? Smith and Wesson Model 320
Sam.S 04.18.21
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This thing looks awesome! I am a huge fan of the N0. 3 revolver by Smith and Wesson because of its history with lawmen and outlaws of the west. This is the Smith and Wesson 320. The No. 3 Revolver turned into a revolving top break rifle! Historically revolving carbines have been a flash in the pan since they are prone to malfunction and especially dangerous in the cap and ball form since they could chain fire. This Smith and Wesson 320 is a true and beautiful beast.
“Manufactured 1879 to 1887 with a total production of only 977, this is one of the rarest Smith & Wesson firearms produced. Of the 977 manufactured, only 514 were made with the 18 inch barrel and only approximately 85-90 featured nickel plating, which is less than 10% of all production. This scarce and unusual Revolving Rifle was manufactured using the frame, cylinder and basic action of the New Model No. 3 revolver with some minor differences in the hammer and trigger, with the barrel composed of two pieces. A slot is cut into the butt and a hole drilled in the back strap to accommodate the shoulder stock, which is included. The 18 inch barrel features a blade front sight, a two leaf folding rear sight and a solid rib stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking.
-Rock Island Auction Company”
Lot 212: Nickel Plated Smith & Wesson Model 320 Revolving Rifle [Photograph found in Premier Firearms Auction #82, Rock Island Auction Company]. (n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2021, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/82/212/nickel-plated-smith-wesson-model-320-revolving-rifle
