Engraved Smith & Wesson S&W New Model No. 3 .44 Russian 6″ Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $2358

LSB#: 220204RT036

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: New Model Number Three

Serial Number: 27327

Year of Manufacture: 1891

Caliber: .44 S&W Russian

Action Type: Top-Break Single Action Revolver

Markings: The rib atop the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D JAN. 17 & 24. 65. JULY 11. 65 / AUG. 24. 69. APR. 20. 75. FEB. 20 & DEC. 18. 1877. REISSUE JULY 25. 1871”. The barrel extension, barrel latch, rear face of the cylinder and the grip frame’s butt are all marked “27327”. The left side of the grip frame is marked “M.E. GOUSE / ENGR” and “2016”. The revolver has scroll engraving coverage by Mike Gouse.

Barrel Length: 6”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an aftermarket Marbled beaded blade pinned into a slot in the barrel rib. The rear sight is a tiny “U” notch in the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered black hard rubber with S&W logos and smooth diamonds. The grips are reproductions. There are some scattered light marks from handling. There are a couple little scratches, mostly down by the bottoms. The checkering is sharp. The grips rate in about Excellent condition as replacements.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: The surfaces have been treated with Cold Blue.

Bore Condition: The bore is dull and the rifling is worn. There is scattered erosion and a few light pits in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. There is mottled thinning, patina, and finish loss. The surfaces have been treated with cold blue but the gun retains an antique appearance. The edges of the sideplate are proud to the frame. There are some scattered spots of light oxidation. There are some marks into the edges of the rib at the front sight. There are some scattered little dings into the metal. There are a few scratches into the metal. The screw heads all show marks of use but remain serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions, but not entirely correctly. The cylinder lockup has light side-to-side play. The half cock does not engage properly and the hammer still contacts the barrel latch. As a result, the hammer must be manually restrained in order to operate the barrel latch. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The New Model Number Three was the finest single action revolver Smith & Wesson produced in the 19th Century, having all the refinements learned since their very first single action revolver. It was a noted target match revolver in its adjustable sighted version, used by Annie Oakley, Ira Paine and Walter Winans. In the fixed sighted version, as is this example, it is known that Virgil Earp, Montana Jack and Buffalo Bill Cody all owned New Model Number Three revolvers. This revolver will show nicely with its nice new engraving while still retaining an old world appearance. It should hold a nice position in a collection of S&W or Old West revolvers. Please see our photos and good luck!