Smith and Wesson Blued .44 Double Action Revolver

This is a nice early example of the S&W Double Action revolver in caliber .44 Russian.   It has a low 4-digit serial number with blued finish which is contrasted nicely by the scarce early type checkered wood grips.   Blued ones with this much finish are hard to find and that goes double for early ones with wood grips.  Barrel measures 6" with a 1-7/16" cylinder.   All numbers are matching on the barrel, frame, latch, cylinder, and inside the grips.   Barrel has patent dates from 1865 to 1880 with the Smith and Wesson, Springfield Mass. address.

Overall condition grades to NRA Antique Excellent with 85% bright original blue finish remaining on the frame and barrel.   Cylinder is a mixture of original blue and plum brown patina with stronger blue in the flutes.   It shows only modest use as even the grip straps show almost all their original blue.   Nice case colors on the trigger and hammer.   Walnut grips are in Fine+ to Excellent condition with sharp checkering and perfect wood-to-metal fit.   Aside from a few light handling marks, they're nearly perfect.   Action works nicely.   Barrel locks up to frame tightly with no play.   Bore is excellent...bright and shiny with strong lands and grooves.   Just a nice example of an early large frame S&W DA in the desirable .44 Russian caliber.

Item# 1167

SOLD