Smith & Wesson S&W .38 Double Action 3rd Model 3.25″ DA/SA Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $1150

LSB#: 211027RF04

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .38 Double Action 3rd Model

Serial Number: 272559

Year of Manufacture: 1884-1895

Caliber: .38 S&W

Action Type: Top Break Double Action / Single Action Auto-Ejecting Revolver with 5 Round Cylinder

Markings: The bottom of the grip frame, the rear face of the cylinder, rear face of the top strap, and the underside of the barrel latch are marked “272559”. The top of the barrel rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D JAN. 24. 65. / JULY 11 65. AUG. 24. 69 REISSUE JULY 25. 71. MAY 11.80 JAN. 3.82.”. The interior of the right grip panel is hand inscribed “272559”. The right grip is marked “PAT’D JAN. 29. 78” at the bottom.

Barrel Length: 3 1/4″, Ribbed

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a thin half-round blade pinned to the barrel rib and the rear sight is a “U” notch in the top of the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered black hard rubber. The grips have an S&W logo at the top and a smooth diamond around the grip screw escutcheon. The grips have a few scattered light marks. The patent date on the left panel is worn but the other details are strong. The checkering is strong with light rub wear. The grips rate in about Excellent condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is strong with some light edge wear. There are some scattered spots of erosion and light pitting.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 93% of its metal finish. There are some swirls and draglines from use and storage. There are some scattered little spots of finish loss and light erosion, the most noticeable are on the cylinder. There are some cloudy areas, the most noticeable are on the grip frame. There are some little bubbles, most noticeable on the butt of the grip frame. There are a few light scuffs. The trigger guard has a few little spots of frost. The screwheads show light use with strong slots. The markings are clear, the rib and grip frame markings have remains of red color fill. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is almost zero side-to-side play in full lockup. 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: The .38 Double Action was first introduced in 1880 and manufactured until 1911 with a total production of 554,077 revolvers, it was the companies first .38 double action. Four different design changes were made, resulting in five separate models for the collectors to use in distinguishing the different variations. The 3rd Model was introduced in 1884 and manufactured until 1895, with a total production of 203,700 revolvers produced. This one was made in the middle of the 3rd Models production run and is serial number 272559. It has seen some use but is still a charming little revolver at over 125 years old with a bore that can do work and an action that is still spot on. Please see our photos and good luck!