Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless
Smith & Wesson · Revolver · Discontinued · 1887
Also known as: Lemon Squeezer, New Departure, S&W .38 Safety Hammerless
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless is a top-break, double-action-only pocket revolver produced from 1887 to 1940 and nicknamed the "Lemon Squeezer" for its backstrap grip safety. Chambered in .38 S&W (and a smaller .32 S&W version), the concealed-hammer, five-shot design could not snag on clothing and required the grip safety to be depressed before it would fire, making it a popular concealed self-defense arm.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 510 g (18.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Barrel Length | 89 mm (3.50") |
| Action Type | Double Action Revolver |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Internal |
| Muzzle Velocity | 190 m/s (623 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 235 J (173 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 18 m (20 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 90 m (98 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .38 S&W · primary — also known as .38/200, .380 Revolver Mk I, 9x20mmR
- .32 S&W — also known as .32 S&W Short
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Grip Safety, Concealed Hammer
- Features: Top Break Action, Automatic Ejector, Internal Hammer, Fixed Sights
Variants
- Smith & Wesson .32 Safety Hammerless — Caliber
Service history
Operators
- American civilian market
Production
Production years: 1887-1940
Produced in five models/variations over five decades in both .32 and .38 S&W
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Daniel B. Wesson
Discontinued: 1940
Notes
Marketed by S&W as the "New Departure". The grip safety on the backstrap earned it the "Lemon Squeezer" nickname. Offered with 2, 3, 3.5 and occasionally 6 inch barrels.
Background
The grip safety on the backstrap had to be squeezed before the revolver would fire, earning it the enduring collector nickname "Lemon Squeezer" and making it one of the safest pocket revolvers of its day.