Custom 1st Model Smith & Wesson S&W .44 Special SA/DA 5 Screw N Frame C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,081.00
LSB#: LSB260221WD006
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: Hand Ejector 1st Model
Serial Number: 3940
Year of Manufacture: Ca.1907-1910 C&R
Caliber: .44 Special
Action Type: DA/SA, 6 Shot, Swing Out, Fluted Cylinder with Ejector.
Barrel Length: Modified to 3 3/4″ and pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a large half-moon blade fixed at the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a ‘U’ shape notch at the rear of the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece, checkered walnut, square butt, with a flat top without medallions. The stocks show minor scratches and compression dents mostly on the butt of the stocks. The right stock shows smoothing of the checkering from handling, while the left remains well textured. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Chrome-plated
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is some minor corrosion pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 85% of its refinish, and shows heavy wear and scratches along the metal surfaces. There are nicks and scuffs scattered throughout. There is noticeable plating loss at the muzzle and on the cylinder, as well as frame edges. There is some corrosion freckling. The screws show signs of use, yet strong and usable. The markings are not legible. Overall, this handgun rates in Good-Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder has minor play in the lock up. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action trigger is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model, often referred to by collectors as the “Triple Lock,” represents one of the finest revolver designs of the early 20th century. Introduced in 1907 alongside the then-new .44 Special cartridge, the design featured a third locking lug on the yoke, providing exceptional strength and alignment that set it apart from contemporary revolvers. The .44 Special itself quickly earned a reputation for accuracy and smooth shooting characteristics, becoming a favored cartridge among target shooters and outdoorsmen. Early 5-screw N-frame examples such as this were produced during a period when Smith & Wesson was establishing its large-frame revolvers as benchmarks for strength and refinement.
The date of this particular revolver is based on the introduction in 1907-1915, with the period of these stocks being used from 1904-1910. This example has been significantly modified from its original configuration, including a shortened and pinned 3 3/4″ barrel and a chrome-plated refinish that now retains approximately 85% of its coverage. The revolver shows evident wear throughout, including scratches, nicks, plating loss at the muzzle and cylinder, and scattered corrosion freckling, with the original markings no longer legible. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling but exhibits minor pitting, rating 7/10 in this writer’s opinion. The action functions correctly with minor play in the lock up, featuring a smooth double action pull and crisp single action break. The checkered walnut stocks remain in Fine condition with light wear and smoothing consistent with handling. Overall, this revolver reflects a heavily altered but mechanically sound early N-frame with clear evidence of its age and use. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY