Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson was founded in 1852 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Connecticut. Their early breakthrough was the first practical revolver using rimfire cartridges, developed later in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the company became known for its revolvers and pistols.

In 2023, the headquarters and major production facilities were relocated to Maryville, Tennessee, following regulatory developments in Massachusetts. A new 650,000 ft² facility now consolidates component manufacturing, assembly, and distribution in a single location.

The product range includes semi-automatic pistols (such as the M&P line), durable revolvers, rifles, and ammunition. Throughout the 20th century, Smith & Wesson introduced several hallmark innovations—.357 and .44 Magnum calibers, the first mass-produced stainless-steel revolver, and notable double-action models.