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Smith & Wesson New Model Number 3 with A.O. Niedner Single Shot Conversion to 44 Russian Center Fire

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
Smith & Wesson New Model Number 3 with A.O. Niedner Single Shot Conversion to 44 Russian Center Fire
Active in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, A.O. Niedner played a role in the development of the Patridge front sight and the 22 Long Rifle cartridge. Built around a Smith & Wesson New Model Number Three (produced 1887 - 1910), the cylinder has been removed and replaced with a fixed chamber and solid block, marked "A.O. NIEDNER/ MALDEN, MASS." on the left side, with the standard S&W one line barrel address on the rib and "+44 S.&W. CTG+" marking on the left side, S&W's designation for the 44 Russian ctg. Fitted with a very wide Patridge front sight and an adjustable notch rear, casehardened hammer and trigger guard, adjustable stop screw, and a contoured and checkered right handed thumb rest target grip. Matching numbers on the barrel, latch and butt.
BBL: 8 1/2 inch solid rib
Stock:
Gauge: 44 Russian
Finish: blue
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 33993


Refinished, with 85% of the rust blue remaining, showing a flat gray patina on the grip straps, minor muzzle and high edge wear and scattered light handling marks. Bright colors are visible on the casehardened parts with most remaining. Grips are very fine as custom made, with a small chip on the right panel, brass insert near the butt of the right panel, light handling marks and sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent.