Smith & Wesson S&W Model 44 Hand Ejector 1950 Target Pre-Model 24 Double Action Revolver, MFD 1954-1955 C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,004.97

LSB#: 191024DL02

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: The .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model Target, a.k.a. Model of 1950 .44 Target, Pre-Model 24

Serial Number: S128005

Year of Manufacture: 1954-1955

Caliber: .44 Special

Action Type: Single/Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “44 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG.”. The sideplate has an S&W monogram logo, the right of the frame has the four-line Marcas Regiastradas adddress. The butt is marked “S128005”, found again in the ejector rod shroud and the rear face of the cylinder, the rear face of the crane and underside of the ejector star are each marked “128005”, the inside of the right grip panel is stamped “128 / 005”. The crane, crane cut and sides of the grip frame have inspection marks.

Barrel Length: 6 ½”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade pinned to a serrated, ramped base pinned to the front of the barrel’s serrated rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in its base screwed to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons and S&W medallions at the top of each panel. The grips show light handling wear with only a few scattered minor compressions and handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The barrel has light wear on each side at the muzzle. The cylinder has a thin turn-line. The left of the frame has a small rub-mark between the cylinderand trigger and there are a couple of light marks in front of the grip below the thumb-piece. The grip straps show minor handling wear and there are some light marks on the bottom of the trigger guard. The sideplate has a few scattered light marks including some concealed by the grip when installed. The thumbpiece shows light handling wear. The trigger and hammer have minor operational wear in otherwise strong case color. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action works correctly. The action is smooth and the cylinder lockup has almost no play on all 6 chambers. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Introduced in 1950, the .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model Target is a .44 Special double action revolver built on Smith & Wesson’s N-Frame, and it would go on to become the Model 24 in 1957. This example was made in 1954 or 1955 and is in Fine condition, with about 96% of its metal finish, a great bore and strong mechanics. With its 5-screw frame, pinned barrel and diamond grips, this is a classic vintage Smith in great condition, perfect for a collection. It should also make for a great shooter with .44 Special being a nice target round that won’t be too punishing out of a large-frame steel revolver. Please see our photos and good luck!

Smith & Wesson S&W Model 44 Hand Ejector 1950 Target Pre-Model 24 Double Action Revolver, MFD 1954-1955 C&R
Smith & Wesson S&W Model 44 Hand Ejector 1950 Target Pre-Model 24 Double Action Revolver, MFD 1954-1955 C&R