Smith & Wesson Double Action Frontier Collector’s Revolver – .44-40 Caliber – Mother-of-Pearl Grips

Smith & Wesson Revolver – Frontier Double Action

Manufacture: From 1886 – Caliber: .44-40 WCF – Special feature: Mother-of-pearl grips

History

The Smith & Wesson double-action revolver fully embodies the spirit of the Wild West and the American Frontier. This iconic model was used by several legendary figures of the West, including Belle Starr and the famous Texan John Wesley Hardin—notably during his final duel in El Paso in August 1895. With approximately 53,000 units produced, this revolver is distinguished by its elegant yet robust design, derived from earlier Smith & Wesson double-action models in .32 and .38 calibers. Initially chambered primarily in .44 Russian, it was highly prized for its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use—qualities essential to both professionals and the gunfighters of the era.

Even rarer is the Smith & Wesson Double Action Frontier in .44-40 caliber; specifically designed for the Western market and compatible with Winchester long guns, it is a highly sought-after piece for discerning collectors. Only 15,340 units of this Frontier version were produced, making it a true relic of the Wild West today.

Our Model

This rare Smith & Wesson Double Action Frontier collector’s revolver, chambered in .44-40, retains a significant portion of its original blued finish.

The metal components are in excellent condition, free from corrosion, and the markings—while slightly softened by time—remain correct and legible. A "7" mark is stamped on the trigger guard, frame, and cylinder, likely indicating a Smith & Wesson factory inspection. The serial number (1XXX) indicates very early production—a fact further confirmed by the absence of a caliber marking on the barrel, a characteristic of early models. The matching serial number appears on the frame, cylinder, and latch mechanism, ensuring the firearm's integrity and authenticity. The piece is beautifully complemented by rare mother-of-pearl grips; free of damage and boasting a superb patina developed over time, they harmonize perfectly with the revolver and add remarkable character to this Western-style configuration.

Mechanically, the revolver is in good working order in both single- and double-action modes. There is very slight play in the lockup consistent with use, and a cylinder gap appropriate for the firearm's age. The action is crisp, the strike is powerful, and the timing is precise. The 6-inch barrel, chambered in .44-40, features a clean, undamaged bore, ensuring excellent shooting accuracy even today.

This Smith & Wesson Frontier Double Action in .44-40—featuring a classic Western look and mother-of-pearl grips—is a prime addition to any collection of antique American firearms.

The firearm comes with an official Category D classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.