Commemorative. It’s one of those words that gets overused today. Along with epic, awesome, unique and groundbreaking.
But every now and then, something comes around that meets the definition square on. Smith & Wesson has hit the mark with a commemorative, limited-edition package to celebrate the launch of the brand’s new 1854 lever-action rifle.
More on that in a minute.
Going back to the company’s earlier origins as the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company, and the lever-action handgun that bore the same name, S&W has entered the lever gun market with a modern take on the classic design.
Chambered in .44 Magnum, the 1854 is named after the company’s founding and shows what a 150-plus year old platform can become with today’s materials, design and manufacturing capabilities. Rugged, reliable but also quick, nimble and accurate, the 1854 was a joy to shoot at its inaugural range event at SHOT Show.
Now, S&W is helping mark the launch of the 1854 with a 100-unit run of commemorative 1854s, packaged with a matching Model 29 revolver. The pairing is a natural fit, as the original chamberings for lever actions were in pistol calibers to match the handgun carried on the range.
A beautiful display case contains the 1854 Limited rifle, in and of itself a collectible as only 1,854 units of this will be produced. The PVD gloss black finish highlights the high-grade walnut furniture’s satin finish.
The famed Model 29 revolver is the legendary 6.5-inch barreled version in blue carbon steel with walnut grips. The DA/SA revolver made famous in Hollywood is chambered in .44 Magnum.
Both the 1854 rifle and Model 29 handgun have been engraved and embellished by famed customization house Baron’s Engraving. The design is inlaid with 22-karat gold and the 1854 and Model 29 share complimentary designs.
Included with the firearms and display case is a letter from S&W CEO Mark Smith, providing provenance to the set’s origin and limited status.
The collectible status of this set is undoubted, with low serials expected to be the most desirable. Which made this opportunity that much more special.
Smith & Wesson made serial number No. 1 of 100 available through a special auction on GunBroker.com. This was a once-in-a-generation chance to own a real piece of S&W history.
Proceeds from this auction went to benefit the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Safari Club International. Long-time supporters of conservation, Smith & Wesson released this piece of their history to help preserve and protect the sport of hunting for future generations.
The auction ended March 10th.
If you are looking for an 1854 rifle that may see more time in the field, you don’t need to go any further than GunBroker.com where dealers from around the country already have the Model 1854 and will soon have the 1854 Limited rifles available.
In collaboration with our esteemed partners, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Safari Club International, both dedicated to conservation efforts, we are honored to announce that a portion of the proceeds from this auction were contributed to support their vital initiatives. By participating in this auction, not only did you have the opportunity to acquire these exceptional firearms, but you also played a direct role in furthering conservation efforts aimed at preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
RMEF
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) is a nonprofit committed to preserving elk, wildlife, their habitats, and our hunting heritage. Established in 1984, RMEF has become a leading force in global wildlife conservation.
SCI
Safari Club International (SCI) is a global organization defending the freedom to hunt, hunters’ rights, wildlife conservation, and outdoor education. Since its inception in 1972, SCI has evolved into a prominent advocate for hunting, boasting members from across the globe.