Smith & Wesson .455 Mark II Hand Ejector 1st Model Triple Lock, 1914-15 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,305.00
LSB#: LSB250830TW027
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: .455 Mark II Hand Ejector 1st Model Triple Lock 5-Screw, Square Butt N-Frame
Serial Number: 412
Year of Manufacture: 1914-15 (reference Standard catalog)
Caliber: .455 Mark II
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. The right side of the barrel has a London Nitro Proof mark, “.455 .760” / 6 TONS”. The crane arm and cut are marked, “2620”. And the serial number, “412” is on the bottom of the grip frame. There is what might be an Canada proof mark (crossed pennants) on the left, forward part of the frame. There is what might be a Canada proof mark (crossed pennants) on the left, forward part of the frame.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2”, Pinned.
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 S&W medallions at the top of each panel. The butt of the grip frame has 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 Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is distinct. There is mild erosion in the bore. There is some stubborn fouling in the grooves. 8/10 on the bore rating.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its current metal finish. There are small scratches, nicks, and rub marks throughout. The leading edge of the muzzle has 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. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces very 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.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson .455 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 .455 Webley. The revolver was most likely part of a Lend-Lease program and sent to Britain during WW1, thus the London nitro proof mark..
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.
This particular revolver was built in 1914-15 by Smith for the British Empire. It bears a London Proof mark, Canadian crossed pennants, and no import marks into the US. If guns could tell a story, this would be a good one to share a beer with.
Today, the Smith & Wesson .455 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.
– C.B.
