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Scarce Smith & Wesson 44 Hand Ejector Second Model Target With Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,400.00 - 2,250.00 USD
Scarce Smith & Wesson 44 Hand Ejector Second Model Target With Factory Letter
Manufactured in 1923. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line address/patent dates, "SMITH & WESSON" on the left side and the caliber designation on the right. Small S&W trademark logo on the left side of the frame and "MADE IN U.S.A." on the right. The revolver is equipped with a blade front and adjustable rear sights, casehardened hammer and trigger and fitted with checkered walnut grips with a diamond pattern around the screw. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, 6 1/2" barrel, caliber, adjustable rear sight, blue finish, butt swivel, checkered walnut grips and that it was shipped to an individual, address unknown on December 6, 1923. The letter also states that the revolver was one of several that were made from Model 1917 45 Hand Ejector frames built during WWI and inspected by Springfield Armory, (no inspection marks), that were instead used in production of the .44 Hand Ejectors after the war.
BBL: 6 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 44 S&W special
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 21418
Condition: Very fine. The revolver retains 90% original finish with some minor muzzle wear, an area on the right side of the barrel at the breech that has thinned to a smooth brownish gray, a small area on the right rear of the frame that has been cleaned and touched up with cold blue, a couple small areas of spotting on the barrel and a few small areas of minor pitting on the frame. There are some minor scratches on the barrel and a small cleaned area on the upper right front of the frame. Most of the original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are excellent with a small chip on the upper right panel, some lower edge wear, a few minor handling marks and crisp checkering. The markings remain sharp. The action is excellent.