Smith & Wesson S&W .44 Double Action First Model 5″ Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $1425

LSB#: 201106MW42

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: .44 Double Action First Model

Serial Number: 29379

Year of Manufacture: 1881-1913, All frames made prior to 1899.

Caliber: .44 Russian

Action Type: Top Break, Double Action / Single Action, 6-Shot Revolver

Markings: The top of the rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT’D JAN 17 & 24 .65 / JUL.11.65, AUG. 24.69 JULY 25.71 DEC.2.79 MAY 11&25 1880”. The butt of the grip frame, rear of the cylinder, and rear of the top strap are marked with the serial number.

Barrel Length: 5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a round blade pinned to the top of the rib. The rear sight is a U-notch in a rise in the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black hard rubber with smooth borders and S&W logos at the tops. The right panel has cracked apart into three large pieces and been glued back together. There are some chip losses on the right panel. There are some scattered little dings and nicks. The checkering has rub wear and the majority has gone smooth. The grips have a brownish hue. Overall, the grips rate in about Fair condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dull and the rifling is visible. There is pitting scattered throughout.

Overall Condition: This handgun has lost it finish and turned to a thick patina. There are spots of erosion, some of the most noticeable are on the barrel at the front and on the trigger guard. There are some scattered scuffs and a few scratches. There are some nicks and dings. There is some thinning on the edges. There are turn lines on the cylinder. The screw heads are tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with some side to side play. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This is an historically important Smith and Wesson, the first model of the .44 Double Action revolver, and the last of the big top breaks. Please see pages 108 and 109 of “The Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson 3rd Edition”, by Supica and Nahas for more details. John Wesley Hardin used one, and one was shipped to General Leonard Wood. This is a “must” for the Smith and Wesson or American Frontier collector. This example is in about Good condition with a patina and strong mechanics. Please see our photos and good luck!