Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model 1909 .44 Spl. 6.5″Triple Lock C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,830.00
LSB#: LSB250519JC037
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model New Century Triple Lock Military Model of 1908, 5-Screw, Square Butt N-Frame
Serial Number: 3836
Year of Manufacture: 1909 (reference Standard catalog)
Caliber: .44 S&W Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked with the S&W trademark monogram. The barrel has patent dates across the top: “SMITH AND WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D MAR.27.94 MAY.21.95.AUG.4.96. OCT.8. 01.DEC. 3. 01. FEB.6.06” The left side of the barrel “44 S&W SPECIAL CTG”. The crane arm and cut are marked, “1875”. And the serial number, “3836” is on the bottom of the grip frame.
Barrel Length: 3 1/2”, Pinned.
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 a two piece checkered walnut with smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons. There are remarkably few scratches and pressure dents for a gun of this age throughout. There is a chip at the butt of the right grip. There are no cracks. The checkering has smoothed out considerably. Overall, the grips are in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is evident. There is little to no erosion in the bore.There is some stubborn fouling in the grooves. 8/10 on the bore rating.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 85% of its current metal finish. There are small scratches, nicks, and rub marks throughout. There is some corrosion pitting on the grip frame but no rust. The leading edges have thinned and the trigger/hammer have rub marks from use. The cylinder has a prominent turn line. The screw heads show light to moderate use. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates Good Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces remarkably light side to side movement for a for a C&R of 116 years old.. 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: The Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model, also known as the “Triple Lock,” is a revolver revered for its exceptional craftsmanship, robust construction, and historical significance. Introduced in 1908, it is often considered one of the finest – and perhaps most overbuilt – revolvers ever made by Smith & Wesson. The “Triple Lock” refers to its unique locking mechanism, which provided unparalleled strength and reliability, setting it apart from other revolvers of its era. This style of revolver was chambered in a multitude of .44 and .45 calibers.
The defining feature of the Triple Lock revolver is its advanced locking system. In addition to the conventional cylinder latch and center pin lock, it incorporates a third locking point at the front of the cylinder crane. This third lock enhances the revolver’s durability and ensures precise alignment of the cylinder with the barrel, contributing to its renowned accuracy and smooth operation. The revolver’s double-action mechanism and hand-ejector system for spent cartridges further exemplify Smith & Wesson’s attention to detail and innovation. The revolver was constructed on the large “N” frame, making it sturdy enough to handle powerful cartridges. Its 6 1/2-inch barrel provided excellent accuracy at both short and long ranges. The revolver’s finish is in the military style “Matte Blue” The Triple Lock gained significant popularity among shooters for its precision and durability. However, its complex design and high manufacturing costs made it expensive to produce. After a relatively short production run of around 15,000 units, the model was discontinued in 1915 and succeeded by simpler designs. Despite this, it remained a treasured firearm among collectors and enthusiasts. Today, the Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model “Triple Lock” is considered a masterpiece of revolver engineering. Its historical importance, combined with its exceptional craftsmanship and performance, makes it a highly sought-after piece among collectors. It stands as a testament to Smith & Wesson’s commitment to quality and innovation in the golden age of revolver design. -C.B..
