Smith & Wesson S&W Third Model Russian .44 Single Action Revolver Antique
SOLD FOR: $1476
LSB#: 210722TS37
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Third Model Russian, (New Model Russian or Model No. Three Russian 3rd Model)
Serial Number: 48974
Year of Manufacture: 1874-1878
Caliber: .44 S&W Russian
Action Type: Top Break Single Action Revolver with Auto Ejector
Markings: The barrel’s top rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY 10, 60. JAN. 17. FEB. 17. JULY 11. 65 & AUG. 24. 69. RUSSIAN MODEL”. The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number and “1874” in a box. The right side of the grip frame is marked with “1557”. The rear face of the barrel is marked “1557” and the bottom of the latch is marked “1557 JJ”. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “1577”. The interior of the right grip panel is stamped “49974”.
Barrel Length: 6 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tapered blade integral to the barrel’s rib. The rear sight is a “U”-notch integral to the barrel latch assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut. There are patches of black paint scattered over the surfaces. There are some scattered little draglines and a few light compressions. There are some light hairline scratches and little dings through the finish, the majority of the defects have colored with age. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good-plus condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: The finish was Blued.
Finish Originality: No finish remains, but we see no signs of a new finish having been applied.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well-defined rifling. There is scattered light erosion and pitting in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 0% of its metal finish. The metal surfaces have worn to white, showing scattered light surface oxidation and minor erosion. There are some scattered scabs. The trigger guard has polishing marks. The cylinder has turn wear. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: Sometimes the cylinder is pushed slightly upwards when ejecting but otherwise the action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with little play and the trigger pull is crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: When Smith & Wesson began making centerfire top break revolvers in 1870, they named the large framed .44 Model “No. 3”. This was followed by the .38 Model No. 2 in 1876 and the .32 Model No. 1 ½ 1878, based on frame sizes, not date of manufacture. All were made first in single action, and later double action models were added. The single action versions of the Model 3 were made in four distinct groups: Americans, Russians, Schofields and New Models. The Russian models are distinguished by having a round butt grip frame with extreme knuckle, a barrel latch mounted on the top strap vs. on the frame, and were in .44 caliber with 6 ½ or 7” barrels. The Russian Empire didn’t follow through with payments, nearly bankrupting Smith & Wesson, and would then reverse-engineer the revolver’s design. This one has matching numbers and will be a great addition to your antique collection. Please see our photos and good luck!