Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector Second Model Target 6.5″ .44 S&W Special
SOLD FOR: $3,412.00
LSB#: LSB250613SH016
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector Second Model Target
Serial Number: 44824
Year of Manufacture: Shipped June 10, 1935 (C&R)
Caliber: .44 S&W Special
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder
Markings:
The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number “44824”. The right side of the frame has the S&W trademark logo. The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “44 S.&W. SPECIAL CTG.”.The top of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. / PATENTED DEC.17.01.FEB.6.06.SEPT.14.1909.” The yoke cut is marked “P/83929” and the yoke is marked “83929”. The left sideplate has the early S&W monogram logo.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2″
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a McGivern gold bead pinned to a raised serrated base. The rear sight is an adjustable S&W target sight with two mounting screws.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The grips are a pair of factory checkered walnut target stocks with silver S&W medallions.(They are not numbered to the revolver.) The left panel fits flush to the frame, while the right panel appears slightly proud along the upper edge. There is moderate handling wear and some darkening of the checkering, but no cracks. The checkering remains well-defined. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition:
The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition:
This revolver retains approximately 95% of its metal finish. There is finish loss on the edges of the muzzle, barrel rib, & cylinder flutes. The cylinder has a thin turn-line. Screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear. The revolver is in Very Good-Plus to Fine overall condition.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with minimal play on all chambers. The double-action trigger is smooth, and the single-action break is crisp. The hammer has a finely checkered spur. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories:
Included is a Smith & Wesson factory letter dated March 11, 2015, signed by Historian Roy Jinks. The letter confirms that this revolver shipped on June 10, 1935, to William H. Hoegee Co. in Los Angeles, CA. It further documents the 6.5” barrel, blue finish, McGivern gold bead front sight, target rear sight, checkered walnut grips, and that the revolver was a single unit shipment specified to include a pair of grip adapters.
Our Assessment:
This is a superb example of a pre-war Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector Second Model Target, manufactured in the golden age of S&W craftsmanship and shipped in 1935 to William H. Hoegee Co. in Los Angeles, California. Featuring the desirable 6.5” barrel length, this revolver was shipped with a McGivern gold bead front sight, adjustable rear target sight, and checkered walnut grips. The blue finish still presents beautifully, and this particular gun was a single-unit shipment—suggesting special order status. The period factory letter by Roy Jinks confirms all these features and gives it documented provenance.
This model—produced from 1915 to 1937—is one of the most attractive and finely built revolvers of the 20th century. Built on the large “N” frame and chambered in .44 Special, it offered power, balance, and precision unmatched by its contemporaries. The Second Model, particularly in Target configuration, was favored by serious marksmen and collectors alike for its smooth action and refined aesthetic. The inclusion of a McGivern gold bead front sight further underscores its intended purpose as a precision shooter.
For the Smith & Wesson collector, this revolver checks every box: a rare and desirable configuration, matching factory letter detailing its specific shipment, and excellent original features. The two-screw rear sight and mention of grip adapters add even more uniqueness. This is a revolver that transcends function and enters the realm of fine historical artistry—worthy of display and capable on the range. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
