Smith & Wesson S&W 63-3 Lew Horton 102405 2″ .22 LR Revolver, MFD 1989
SOLD FOR: $1,260
LSB#: 191223TA04
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 63-3, product Code 102405 Lew Horton Special, One of 500
Serial Number: BDY0983
Year of Manufacture: 1989 (“Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, 3rd Edition”, Nahas & Supica, p225)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “.22 L.R. CTG.”, the left side of the frame has S&W’s monogram logo, the right has the four line Marcas Registradas. The yoke cut is marked “MOD. 63-3”. The yoke and sides of the grip frame have inspection marks. The back of the cylinder is marked “V”. The butt is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 2”, With solid, serrated rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with a red insert, integral to the solid, serrated rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is micrometer-click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one-piece pebble-textured black rubber Hogue Monogrip with finger grooves. The grip has light handling wear with scattered light scuffs. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grip is in about Very Good-plus condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 96% of its metal finish. The cylinder has a thin turn-line and there are a few scattered minor marks which mostly go unnoticed in the stainless finish. The sideplate has tool marks at its rear screw and there is light wear on the butt of the frame from the grip bracket, concealed when the grip is installed. Most screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots, the rear sideplate screw is disfigured with a useable slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces very little side to side play with no measurable back play in full lockup of all 6 chambers. The double action trigger pull is smooth, the single action is crisp. 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: This revolver comes in a blue cardboard Smith & Wesson box with serial-matching label, wax paper, an assortment of factory paperwork including manual, and cleaning accessories including rod, brush, mop and sight adjustment tool. The box has scattered minor storage wear, mostly at edges and corners, and scuffing on the bottom face, in about Very Good-plus condition. The cleaning accessories are still sealed in their plastic packaging.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1977, the model 63 is a J-frame, stainless steel, rimfire revolver. Its smaller frame and .22 LR chambering make it a nice training revolver for new shooters, especially those with smaller hands. This example is a limited edition model with only 500 made for distributor Lew Horton. It has a 2″ barrel, after-market Hogue Monogrip, and a round-butt frame. While this would make a great little carry gun for snakes and other small critters, plinker, or trainer for a new shooter, it’s sure to interest the Smith collectors given its high condition, original box, and limited production. Please see our pictures and good luck!