SOLD - Rare, Mint Smith & Wesson "Bekeart" 22/32

1/9/18 - This is a magnificent example of an early "Bekeart" model S&W revolver, made in the early 1910s, and chambered in .22 LR.  This particular variation was originally conceived in response to a request by a well known firearms reseller, Phil Bekeart, who wanted a .22 caliber target revolver built on a .32 cal heavier frame. First 3000 guns had an assembly sequence number stamped on the bottom of the left grip panel and are considered to be the "original" Bekearts. Production was started in 1911 and became a very popular model for S&W. The first run of 3000 guns is considered to be the rarest and the most collectible. This particular example retains nearly 99% of its original blue with just a hint of wear on the muzzle and a light cylinder turn line. The bore and grips are mint. The left panel is stamped with assembly number 2071 on the bottom. The gun serial number falls into the known serial range for this model.  Factory letter confirms the barrel length and all the particulars of this scarce revolver. Early Bekearts now reside in collections and to find an example in such outstanding condition is almost impossible.