This Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 is a six-shot, double-action revolver chambered in .22 Long Rifle, fitted with a 2-inch barrel in a nickel-plated finish. Serial number M76845. Presented with its Certificate of Ownership and aftermarket Pachmayr Presentation/Compac rubber grips.
This revolver is a distinguished part of the private collection of HRH Victor Emmanuel of Savoy, son of the last King of Italy, Umberto II. An authentic Certificate of Ownership accompanies this piece.
Historical Significance
The Smith & Wesson Model 34, known as the "22/32 Kit Gun," holds a special place in American firearms history as one of the most beloved small-frame revolvers ever produced. Its lineage traces back to 1935, when Smith & Wesson first introduced the .22/32 Kit Gun — a compact, lightweight revolver designed to be packed in a hunting or fishing kit for small game, pest control, and recreational shooting.
In 1953, the design was significantly improved with the introduction of a coil mainspring and the option of a 2-inch barrel. Model numbers were assigned in 1957, and the .22/32 Kit Gun became the Model 34. In 1960, the transition from the I-frame to the slightly larger J-frame resulted in the Model 34-1 designation. Production continued until 1991, with nickel-finished, 2-inch barrel examples being among the less common variants — the majority were produced with 4-inch barrels in a blued finish. The serial number prefix "M" places this revolver in the post-1968 production era.
Technical Specifications
-
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
-
Model: 34-1 (22/32 Kit Gun)
-
Serial Number: M76845
-
Cylinder Number: 64239 (non-matching)
-
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
-
Action: Double-action / Single-action
-
Cylinder Capacity: 6 rounds
-
Frame: J-frame, round butt
-
Barrel Length: 51 mm (2")
-
Overall Length: approx. 170 mm (6.75")
-
Finish: Nickel-plated
-
Barrel: Pinned, round profile
-
Sights: Serrated ramp front blade, micro-adjustable rear sight (windage and elevation)
-
Grips: Pachmayr Presentation/Compac rubber (aftermarket — replaces original walnut)
-
Trigger: Color case-hardened
-
Hammer: Color case-hardened, wide spur
-
Barrel (right side): ".22 L.R. CTG."
-
Barrel (top): "SMITH & WESSON"
-
Frame (right side): "MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS."
-
Frame (left side): S&W medallion — "TRADE MARK / S&W monogram / MARCAS REGISTRADAS"
-
Model designation on crane: "34-1"
-
Grips (butt): "PRESENTATION/COMPAC / MADE IN U.S.A. BY PACHMAYR / U.S. PAT. NO. 3,672,084"
Note: The cylinder number (64239) does not match the frame serial number (M76845). This is a known occurrence on Smith & Wesson revolvers where cylinders may have been replaced or swapped during service or maintenance. The Pachmayr Presentation/Compac rubber grips are an aftermarket upgrade replacing the original factory walnut stocks. Original grips are not included.
Condition
Very good overall condition. Nickel finish retains strong coverage with a bright, attractive appearance. Minor handling wear and light surface marks consistent with age. Some very minor freckling visible on the cylinder and frame — typical of nickel-plated revolvers of this era. Barrel bluing on the front sight serrations intact. Adjustable rear sight crisp and functional. Trigger and hammer retain color case-hardening. Pachmayr rubber grips in good condition with no tears or significant wear. Mechanics appear sound — cylinder lockup positive, timing correct. Bore not inspected.
What's Included
-
1x Smith & Wesson Model 34-1 revolver, nickel finish (S/N M76845)
-
1x Pachmayr Presentation/Compac rubber grips (installed)
-
Certificate of Ownership — V.E. de Savoie Collection
