Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: No. 3, Second Model Schofield

Serial Number: 6022

Year of Manufacture: 1876

Caliber: .45 Schofield

Action Type: Single Action, Top-Break Revolver

Markings: The left side of the barrel lug is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JAN. 17TH & 24TH 65. JULY 11TH 65. AUG. 24TH 69. JULY 25TH 71.” The right side of the barrel lug is marked “SCHOFIELD’S PAT. APR. 22D 1873.” The butt is marked with the serial number “6022” but does not bear any U.S. military markings. The rear face of the cylinder is also numbered “6022” with a small “W” inspection mark.

Barrel Length: 5 ¾"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a shallow groove in the topstrap of the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut and appear original to the revolver. They show age-consistent wear with softened edges, scattered nicks, and dings. A faint cartouche is visible on the left panel. There are no chips or cracks, and the fit remains solid with only minor play. These grips reflect long service and are well-fit to the frame.

Type of Finish: Originally Blued with Case Colored Hammer and Trigger Guard

Finish Originality: Appears Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with visible rifling and scattered erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 5% of its original finish, with the remaining surfaces showing a rich brown patina. Some muted blue and case color remain in protected areas, particularly around the hinge and hammer base. The screw in the front strap protrudes slightly and could benefit from being shortened and properly fit; however, tightening it too far at its current length will affect the mechanical function of the revolver. The metal surfaces show scattered light oxidation, small pits, and tool wear, but the markings remain legible. The revolver rates in about Good condition as an Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The top-break latch locks securely and the automatic extractor operates as intended. The cylinder indexes and locks with minimal play. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a Smith & Wesson factory letter signed by company historian Roy Jinks, confirming that this revolver, serial number 6022, was shipped on October 12, 1876, to the U.S. Government, National Armory, Springfield, Massachusetts. It was originally configured with a 7" barrel, blue finish, and smooth walnut grips.

Our Assessment: This is a factory-documented Second Model Schofield revolver shipped to the U.S. Government in 1876, during the heart of the Indian Wars. Though it bears no external martial markings, the factory records provide a direct historical connection to the National Armory in Springfield, Massachusetts. Its shortened barrel, worn finish, and honest handling wear speak to its long service life and post-military survival.

The Schofield revolver was a brilliant evolution of the Model 3 design, offering rapid reloading through its top-break action and automatic ejector—features highly valued by cavalry units and express agents alike. Though eventually overshadowed by the Colt Single Action Army, the Schofield’s practical advantages earned it a loyal following, not just in uniform but also on the American frontier. Its cultural legacy lives on, immortalized in films like Unforgiven and favored by icons of the Old West.

This example’s brown patina, original grips, shortened barrel, and period character make it a compelling survivor. Add in the factory letter tying it to U.S. military supply, and you’ve got a revolver that tells a complete and authentic story. It’s a worthy piece for collectors of martial arms, frontier weapons, or American firearm innovation.