Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model .44 Spl 6.5″ DA/SA Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,826.00
LSB#: WY240925JT056
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector 4nd Model, Model of 1950, Pre-Model 21, 5-Screw, Square Butt N-Frame
Serial Number: S106038
Year of Manufacture: 1954 (Factory Letter)
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 right side of the barrel is marked, “.44 S&W SPECIAL. CTG.”. The right side of the frame has the 4-line Marcas Registradas and the S&W monogram logo. The bottom of the grip frame is marked, “S 106038”. The back face of the cylinder and ejector shroud are serial-matched to the grip frame. All number matching original.
Barrel Length: Very rare 6 ½” barrel, Pinned, with shrouded ejector rod.
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 checkered walnut with smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons. There are some scattered little compressions and draglines throughout with the majority being around the top of the panels. The checkering is strong and sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color Hammer & Trigger
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is Very Bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion or pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at 9.9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its current metal finish. There is some light wear and patina on the finger cut of the grip frame, and a wear spot at the bottom edge. There is a crisp turn line through the finish on the cylinder. The hammer and trigger have drag lines from use, however most of the case color remains. There is a small spot at the top of the barrel. The screw heads show light use and buffing. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about excellent condition.
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 action has a short throw hammer.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: S&W Factory Letter.
Our Assessment: This revolver is a beautiful example of Smith & Wesson’s .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model, chambered in .44 Special. A revolver known for its elegant design and robust construction, this firearm represents a continuation of the Hand Ejector series, which was a hallmark of Smith & Wesson’s large-frame revolver craftsmanship. The 4th model has the most changes from the 1st as the 4th model was produced only a few years before being renamed to model 21 in 1957. This revolver features a 6.5-inch barrel, which is quite scarce for the 4th model. Adding to its scarcity, there were only 1,200 being manufactured between the years of 1950 and 1957. Crafted on the N-frame, the largest of Smith & Wesson’s revolver frames, the .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model is built to handle powerful cartridges with ease while maintaining a sleek appearance. Its blued steel finish enhances its looks and adds a touch of sophistication, reminiscent of the golden age of revolver production. The revolver’s checkered walnut grips provide a secure and comfortable hold, complementing its timeless aesthetic. The action of this revolver operates with a short throw double-action and single-action, offering a great shooting experience with the reduced amount of travel. The sights on the 4th Model include a fixed rear notch and a half-moon front blade, designed to be durable and practical for the revolver’s intended uses. These sights are simple yet effective, allowing for quick target acquisition at close to medium ranges.
The provided factory letter that comes with this revolver gives insights to its whereabouts. This model of 1950 was shipped out on April 13th, 1954 to Rex Firearms in New York City, N.Y. This revolver is still fortunately in its original configuration and and has retained its original finish for 60 years. Overall, this Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 4th Model is a testament to the quality and innovation of mid-20th-century revolver design. Its combination of elegant craftsmanship, powerful chambering, and practical features make it a cherished piece of firearms history. Whether displayed as a collector’s item or taken to the range, this revolver continues to evoke admiration and respect among firearm enthusiasts. -R.E.
