Smith and Wesson, 1857-1945: A Handbook for Collectors by Robert J. Neal (1975-06-25)

To the knowledgeable gun enthusiast and collector there is no more fascinating and rewarding field for investigation than the series of handguns produced by the Smith & Wesson Company. These arms played an important part not only in the development of this country's frontiers and in the growth of its small arms industry (Smith & Wesson developed the first practical cartridge revolver), but also in the history and growth of nations young and old around the world. Highly successful in the domestic market, but unable for one reason or another to secure the massive government contracts enjoyed by other great American arms manufacturers, the growing company placed its research and technical skills at the disposal of the world. The names of some of its famous models - "The Russian," "The Turkish," "The Mexican," the familiar British Service Revolver, and many more - indicate the tremendous influence Smith & Wesson has had on the world market, and also indicate the great opportunities for dis