Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model 1908 .45 ACP Triple Lock, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,151.00
LSB#: WY240913TF002
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: 1942
Year of Manufacture: 1909 (reference Standard catalog)
Caliber: .45 ACP
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 that have been cut off and covered with the front sight. The left side of the barrel and frame have British Crown over “V” proofs. The crane arm and cut are marked, “1025”. And the serial number, “1942” is on the bottom of the grip frame.
Barrel Length: 3 3/8”, Pinned. The barrel has been cut down.
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 and “Deep Dish” S&W medallions at the top of each panel. The butt of the grip frame has a hole for a lanyard ring. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout along with chips at the bottom of the panel. There are no cracks. The checkering has mostly sharp peaks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Military Style Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.There is some stubborn fouling in the grooves. 9/10 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. 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 but the barrel markings have been cut off along with the barrel. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition for a C&R of 116 years old.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces light side to side movement. 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. The cylinder and ejector hand can slide freely a few millimeters.
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 revolver was chambered in a multitude of .44 and .45 calibers, this one most likely being in .455 Webly and later adapted to accommodate .45 ACP cartridges using moon clips. In .455 Webly, the revolver was most likely part of a Lend-Lease program and sent to Britain during WW1.
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 6.5-inch barrel, along with finely adjustable iron sights, provided excellent accuracy at both short and long ranges. The revolver’s finish is in the military style “Matte Blue”, although by today’s standards it still appears somewhat polished. 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. -R.E.
