Smith & Wesson S&W Custom 2nd Model American .44 Russian Revolver Antique

SOLD FOR: $1175

LSB#: 201106MW43

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: Custom 2nd Model American

Serial Number: 27923

Year of Manufacture: 1872-1874

Caliber: .44 S&W Russian

Action Type: Top Break Single Action Revolver with Auto Ejector

Markings: The barrel’s top rib is marked “SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JAN 17 & 24 65. JULY 11. 65 AUG. 24. 69. JAN. 19. 1875 REISSUE JULY 25. 1871”. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “515”. The underside of the barrel latch is marked “813”. The butt of the grip frame is marked “27923”. The rear of the top strap is marked “515”.

Barrel Length: 6 ½”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade forged to the rib. The rear sight is a “U” notch in the barrel latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are aftermarket checkered black plastic. There are some scattered scuffs and light marks. Some material has been sanded off along the backstrap. The checkering is mainly strong but there are some smooth spots. Overall, the grips rate in about Very Good-Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Bright

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is shallow and worn. There is erosion throughout the bore.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 0% of its metal finish. There are scattered spots of erosion and discoloration from oxidation. There are scattered scratches, dings, and scuffs. There are some spots that have been polished, most noticeable on the left of the frame below the cylinder. One of the charge holes of the cylinder has tool marks into the metal that will prevent chambering a round. The gas ring has little chips of metal missing and a small crack. The bottom of the barrel, frame, ejector, and cylinder are missing parts. The markings are visible. The screw heads have tool marks. The barrel hinge screw head has snapped off. The ejector does not function. Overall, this gun rates in about Poor condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action DOES NOT function correctly. The cylinder spins freely when the hammer is cocked. The bottom of the barrel, frame, ejector, and cylinder are missing parts. The markings are visible. The screw heads have tool marks. The barrel hinge screw head has snapped off. The ejector does not function. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The New Model Number Three is considered by many to be the best single action revolver S&W ever built. Its dominance at target shooting matches is said to have led Colt to design and produce the Bisley. Annie Oakley, Bob Ford and Teddy Roosevelt are all reputed to have owned S&W New Model #3 revolvers. This one needs some work and has parts missing, it also appears to be a 2nd Model Frame with a 3rd Model Russian barrel and cylinder and a note from our consignor states the same. Please see our photos and good luck!