Incredible Mint Condition Smith & Wesson Frontier .44-40 Mirror Finish Double Action Revolver – Perfect Condition

Smith & Wesson Revolver – Frontier Double Action

Manufactured: from 1886 – Caliber: .44-40 WCF – Special Feature: Exceptional Condition

History

The Smith & Wesson Frontier Double Action perfectly embodies the spirit of the Wild West and the American Frontier. This iconic model was associated with several legendary figures of the West, including Belle Starr and the famous Texan John Wesley Hardin, who is said to have carried a Smith & Wesson during his last standoff in El Paso in August 1895. Produced in approximately 53,000 units across all variants, this revolver is distinguished by its elegant and robust design, derived from earlier Smith & Wesson double-action models in .32 and .38 calibers. Initially chambered primarily in .44 Russian, it was quickly offered in .44-40 WCF to meet the demands of the Western market, allowing the use of ammunition common to Winchester rifles.

The "Frontier" version in .44-40 caliber, of which only 15,340 were produced, is particularly sought after today. Specifically designed for the Western territories, it is a true relic of the Western era and a prime model for discerning collectors.

Our Model

This collector's item would be perfectly at home in a museum display case and a prestigious European collection.

Its original nickel plating is approximately 95% intact, remaining bright and uniform—a truly remarkable condition for a revolver of this era. The hammer and trigger retain beautiful traces of case hardening, while the trigger guard still displays its original bluing. The markings are consistent, clear, and deeply engraved. The serial number 3XXX indicates a particularly early production date, which is also confirmed by the absence of a caliber marking on the barrel, a characteristic of the very first examples. This perfectly matching number is present on the frame, cylinder, and opening mechanism, guaranteeing the integrity and authenticity of the firearm. The cylinder's edges remain perfectly sharp, demonstrating that this part has seen very little use and has not undergone any restoration. The slight finger scuff mark on the right side of the frame confirms its strictly original condition. The weapon is equipped with a "Target" style rear sight, offering finer and more precise aiming. The whole is enhanced by superb, flawless grips, which have acquired a delicate patina over time, perfectly harmonizing with the weapon and lending an exceptional character to this typically Western configuration.

Mechanically, and even if the expression may seem unusual for a collector's item, the condition can be described as near mint: absolutely no play or excessive cylinder gap, perfect operation. The cocking action is crisp and precise, a true pleasure in itself. Intended primarily for collectors, this revolver would nevertheless remain particularly effective in both single and double action. The 6-inch .44-40 caliber barrel has a bore that can also be described as near mint, with perfectly crisp and deep rifling.

This magnificent and rare Smith & Wesson Frontier in .44-40, in truly exceptional original condition, will undoubtedly be a centerpiece in a prestigious collection of antique American firearms.