Smith & Wesson Second Model 1871 Single Action Revolver, .38 Caliber, Spur Trigger, 5 Shot, Total Production 108,255

This is another gun carried by Texas Ranger Sgt. J. M. Brittain who was a member of Company B, Frontier Battalion and served under Ranger Captain Bill McDonald in the 1890's. Guns such as this were very popular among Rangers as "Back Up" weapons tucked away in a boot or in the trousers in that special instance where getting off another shot was critical. Very often, this hidden weapon was a life saver in difficult situations. Its small size made concealment easier and the single action, spur trigger action was safer to store in your clothing than a double action heavier model.