Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless

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	Weapon: Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless Type: Revolver Country of Origin: United States Year Adopted: 1887 Overall Length (mm): 170.0 Overall Length (in): 6.69 Weight (kg): 0.60 Weight (pounds): 1.32

The Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless, also known as the "lemon squeezer," was introduced in the late 19th century as a concealed-carry revolver emphasizing safety and reliability. Its most notable feature was the absence of an external hammer, which minimized the risk of snagging during draw and made it highly practical for pocket carry. The revolver also featured a grip safety, which required the user to firmly squeeze the handle to fire, further enhancing its safety profile. Available in both .32 S&W and .38 S&W calibers, the Safety Hammerless had a top-break design that allowed for rapid reloading.

Produced between 1887 and 1940, the Safety Hammerless became a popular choice for personal defense. Over 260,000 units were manufactured during its production run, split across five different models with minor variations in barrel lengths and calibers. Its compact design and ease of use made it a favorite among civilians, law enforcement, and private security personnel during a time when urbanization increased the demand for small, concealable firearms.

The Smith & Wesson Safety Hammerless gained notoriety for its innovative safety mechanisms and practical design, influencing the development of modern concealed-carry revolvers. It became a hallmark of Smith & Wesson's ingenuity in firearm manufacturing and is remembered today as a classic of late 19th and early 20th-century design. Collectors prize the Safety Hammerless for its historical significance and aesthetic appeal, with well-preserved examples fetching high prices in the antique firearms market.