Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: Fourth Model, The Straight Line Target

Serial Number: 1662

Year of Manufacture: 1925-1936

Caliber: 22 LR

Action Type: Single shot, Recessed Chamber, Rebounding Hammer, Side Pivot Barrel Loading Barrel.

Barrel Length: 10 inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a patridge blade pinned to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch sight screwed to the top of the barrel at the rear.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 piece walnut with silver colored S&W Medallions. The medallions were originally gold color but the color has mostly washed away. There is light handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is excellent and the rifling is strong. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong throughout. There is some thinning on some of the leading edges. There is very fine pinprick pitting on the frame around some of the pins. There are a few minor handling marks including a couple surface scratches. There is little to no operational wear. The screw heads are strong with light tooling marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Approximately 1,870 Straight Line pistols were produced by Smith & Wesson before manufacturing ceased in 1936. This model had a 10 inch side swing barrel and was originally supplied in a felt-lined metal case. The designation “Straight Line” refers to the hammer, which does not pivot but travels in a straight line. The Smith & Wesson Straight Line Single Shot target pistol is a fascinating piece of firearm history. Produced between 1925 and 1936, it stands out with its unique design and features.

The Straight Line Model was developed as a response to the Colt Camp Perry Model single-shot, which had achieved success using the Colt Officers Model .38 frame in 1921 and 1922. Smith & Wesson aimed to create an arm that would be easier for the average shooter to handle while making improvements in the action. The grip shape was adapted from auto pistols, allowing the pistol to naturally point without wrist bending. The trigger moved in a straight pull, addressing concerns about aim disturbance caused by swinging hammers and triggers. Chambered in Caliber .22 LR with a Barrel Length of 10 inches. The Loading Mechanism / Side Swing Barrel (opens for loading and ejecting the cartridge) Is one of the finer features of this weapon. The Competition Sights are a Fixed blade front sight and an adjustable rear sight on a ribbed barrel. The Straight Line Single Shot remains a testament to Smith & Wesson’s innovation and willingness to explore unconventional designs in pursuit of accuracy and performance.