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Smith & Wesson Model No. Three Russian 1st Model Revolver Cut for Shoulder Stock

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,300.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,750.00 USD
Smith & Wesson Model No. Three Russian 1st Model Revolver Cut for Shoulder Stock
Identical to American Models except for the barrel address and chambered for the 44 Russian rather than the 44 American. This is a commercial revolver numbered within the American Model serial range. Smith manufactured a total of 26,000 1st Model Russians between 1871 and 1874. Furthermore this is a rare variations factory cut for a shoulder stock. Only an estimated 604 Russian and American arms models combined were fitted with this feature which became available upon request beginning on March 29, 1873, see "Smith & Wesson 1857-1945 " by Robert J. Neal and Roy G. Jinks page 171. The grip strap is cut twice, one on the backstrap and once on the butt, rather than three times as seen on the 2nd and 3rd model Russians. Pinned blade front sight with notched rear sight on barrel latch. Matching numbers. The barrel address reads in one line "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD. MASS. U.S.A. PAT. JULY 10.60. JAN. 17. FEB. 17. JULY. 11 65 & AUG. 24. 69. RUSSIAN MODEL". Smooth oiled walnut grips with lanyard hole at the butt plugged with a screw.
BBL: 8 inch solid rib
Stock:
Gauge: 44 Russian
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 20086


Good. The barrel is now an even cleaned bright gray down the length exhibiting patches of pin prick pitting some smooth and handling marks. All markings are still clear. The cylinder is also an even bright gray with some similar patches of pitting scattered. The frame retains 20% original blue finish in protected areas the balance is a mottled gray brown with some light surface scratches and limited areas of cleaning on the barrel hinge. The hammer shows faint but still visible original case colors. The grips are very good with exception of an extra coat of old varnish. Mechanically fine. A seldom encountered variation factory-cut for a shoulder stock.