Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 2nd Model .44 Spl 6.5″ Revolver 1917 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1152

LSB#: 210506MW05

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .44 Hand Ejector 2nd Model, 5-Screw, Square Butt N-Frame

Serial Number: 16144

Year of Manufacture: 1917

Caliber: .44 Special

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the top is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS. U.S.A. / PATENTED OCT. 8. 1901. DEC. 17.1901. FEB. 6. 1906.”, the right is marked “44 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG”, flanked by crosses. The butt of the grip frame, barrel flat, rear of the cylinder, rear flat of the yoke, and ejector star are serialized to the frame with the barrel flat marking preceded by “B”. The crane and cut are marked “879”. The left of the frame has the S&W monogram logo. There are inspection marks on the sides of the grip frame. There interior of the right grip panel has the serial number written in pencil.

Barrel Length: 6 1/2”, Pinned, with un-shrouded ejector rod.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded half-moon blade with a rectangular base, integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a “U” notch on the frame’s top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are correct checkered walnut with smooth diamonds around the grip screws. There are some scattered little compressions and draglines, most noticeable on the bottom faces. The largest is on the bottom edge of the right panel. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue with Case Colored Hammer & Trigger

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 87% of its metal finish. There are scattered spots of oxidation and frost. There is some scabbing on the trigger guard. There are some spots of finish loss from previous oxidation, most noticeable on the sideplate and frame. There are some little nicks and a few small hairline scratches. There is some thinning and finish loss on some of the edges. There is a turn line through the finish on the cylinder. The screw heads show light use. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces hardly any play at all. 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: None.

Our Assessment: This is Smith & Wesson’s .44 Hand Ejector 2nd model, which was made in 1917. Smith & Wesson felt that the price of the 1st Model was too expensive so they elimiated the ejector rod shroud and the 3rd lock so that they could reduce the price. The revolver was made in 4, 5, and 6 1/2 inches an was available in blue or nickel finishes. This is a 6 1/2 inch model with a blued finish, service sights, and checkered walnut stocks. This one has a lot of finish remaining and it looks good considering it is over 100 years old. This one has rock solid mechanics and a great bore and with the build quality of these vintage revolvers should last a couple more lifetimes if properly cared for. Please see our photos and good luck!