 |
|||
|
Other
Side: Please wait until the entire page has downloaded,
then click on image to see the other side. Move pointer off the image
to return to original view.
|
|||
 |
|||
|
#
4432
|
Smith & Wesson
Transitional American (Model No. 3 Transition Model Single Action) Six-shot
Commercial Model with 8 inch barrel in .44 S&W with the flat bottom
frame typical of 1st Models, but with the 1.423 inch shorter cylinder
and the interlocking hammer and latch typical of the 2nd Models, serial
#6127 mfg. late 1871.
|
For
Info Only
|
|
|
|
The
serial number makes it an earlier transition than the 6400 range cited
by Flayderman (page 199 5G-102). Of the 32,000 S&W Americans made,
less than 2000 were in the transitional configuration like this one.
The matching assembly number 509 is present on the cylinder and barrel. The latch is not numbered. Any assembly number which may have been on the frame under the left grip has been obliterated by pitting. The beautiful old ivory grips belong on this gun and have likely been on it since its period of use in the 1870s. The pitting on the frame under the grips lies precisely beneath areas on the inside of the ivory grips which show moisture damage. This seems to indicate the grips and the frame have been together for many, many years. Otherwise the grips are in fine condition, having turned a rich and mellow color with age. The only age cracks are on the butt.
The barrel address, patent dates, assembly numbers and serial number are all stampings in excellent condition. The external metal surfaces are smooth grey, free of pitting and corrosion, and show a careful cleaning many years ago. Most screws are replacements. The latch may also be a replacement. The cylinder chambers are in excellent shape. The bore is somewhat rough but has deep lands and grooves and will be much improved with a good cleaning. The mechanics are sound and the mainspring strong. This is a beautiful Transitional American in very good overall condition.
The Smith and Wesson .44 Model 3 American was the first large bore revolver on the western frontier. In fact they were there and doing their work several years before Colt's Peacemaker arrived. They played a key role in the Indian Wars and in the dangerous work establishing law and order in the new western towns and cities as they sprang up in the 1870's and the 1880's. The Model 3 American was a reliable offensive weapon made for men fighting against men. Famous gunfighters - both outlaws and lawmen - are known to have carried them and used them well for their deadly purposes. (Ref.
Smith & Wesson 1857 to 1945 by Jinks & Neal; History
of Smith & Wesson by Jinks; Standard Catalogue of Smith &
Wesson by Supica & Nahas; Smith & Wesson Revolvers
by Parsons; Flayderman's Guide to Antique American Firearms by
Flayderman). |
||
 |
|
||
|
|||
