Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 3rd Model Blued 6.5” DA/SA Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $966
WOA#: WY240209TL018
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector 3rd Model, 5-Screw, Square Butt N-Frame
Serial Number: 46710
Year of Manufacture: 1926-1941, C&R
Caliber: .44 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the top is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS. U.S.A. / PATENTED FEB.6.06.SEPT.14.09.DEC.29.14”. The right side of the barrel is marked “44 SPECIAL”. The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.”. The crane cut is marked “3560”. The crane is marked “3560”. The inside of the ejector rod shroud is marked “B 46710”. The left side of the frame has a S&W monogram. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “46710”. The inside face of the ejector “46710”. The bottom of the grip frame is marked “46710”. There are inspection marks on the left side of the grip. The rear of the hammer is marked “REG.U.S.PAT.OFF”.
Barrel Length: 6.5” Round, Pinned.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a rectangular notch leaf screwed to the top strap for windage adjustment (The rear sight is aftermarket and installed professionally by cutting the rear corner of the top strap). This may raise concern for the integrity of the frame upon firing the pistol but we do not think the cut has made this revolver unsafe to fire in any way. We do advise having a gunsmith inspect it before firing. The top strap has a grooved u with serrated edges.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are real stag horn with deep natural fissures and darkening from age. The stocks have nice fit to the grip straps though a bit shy, there are no major damages, some rubbing is apparent. The grips are in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is highly defined. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows no handling wear. The screw heads are serviceable with strong slots and only some light tooling on the grip screw but the rest of the screws are sharp. The markings are clear though partly shallow on the caliber marking. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent Plus condition for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces light side to side play in full lockup in all 6 chambers with no measurable fore to aft play. 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 Hand Ejector .44 3rd Model, an early 20th-century innovation, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of large-frame revolvers. Building on the foundation laid by the N-frame design of its predecessor, the .44 Hand Ejector 1st and 2nd Models, this model became distinct with the return of the ejector shroud and updated sights. Chambered for the .44 Special cartridge, it was favored for its potent stopping power among law enforcement, military, and civilian users alike. Characterized by its exceptional double-action trigger the 3rd Model is a sought-after collector’s item today, revered for its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and Smith & Wesson’s hallmark precision engineering. Its legacy underscores the company’s pivotal role in the development of modern firearms technology, cementing its status as a key piece of Americana in the realm of collectible firearms. This revolver is so pristine that it was hard for me not to call it Like New. Everything about this revolver gleams with excellence and will make an excellent addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.