Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model Revolver 44 Russian

Smith & Wesson – New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model

Manufactured: 1881-1882 – Caliber: .44 Russian – Refinish nickel, all-matching example

This Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model, chambered in .44 Russian, retains excellent overall originality despite its old nickel refinish. As Smith & Wesson's first large-frame double-action revolver, it represents an important step in the evolution of late nineteenth-century American cartridge handguns.

History

The introduction of the double-action mechanism marked a significant advance in the development of metallic cartridge revolvers. Building upon the success of its single-action models, Smith & Wesson introduced a new generation of revolvers capable of firing either by manually cocking the hammer or by a simple pull of the trigger.

Introduced in 1881, the New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model became the company's first large-frame double-action revolver. It retained the famous top-break action with simultaneous automatic extraction, while being offered in several calibers, including the highly respected .44 Russian, renowned for its accuracy and ballistic performance.

Produced until 1913, with approximately 55,000 revolvers manufactured across all variations, the Smith & Wesson Double Action gained popularity among civilian shooters, law enforcement agencies and private users. Today it remains one of the classic American Frontier revolvers sought after by collectors.

Our Revolver

This Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model in .44 Russian features a high-quality old nickel refinish. The finish remains evenly preserved across all metal surfaces, displaying only light, honest wear consistent with its age. Factory markings, including the barrel address, remain sharp and fully legible.

Serial number 32XXX confirms a First Model example. It is an all-matching revolver, with matching numbers found on the frame, cylinder and top-break locking mechanism.

Mechanically, the revolver functions very well in both single-action and double-action modes. The top-break action opens smoothly, automatic extraction operates correctly, timing is precise and overall mechanical condition remains excellent. The .44 Russian barrel retains a bright satin bore with strong rifling, reflecting careful use over its lifetime. Modern ebony grips, precisely fitted to the frame, complete the overall presentation.

This Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Double Action First Model represents an attractive example of one of the most significant American double-action revolvers of the Frontier era.

The revolver is accompanied by its official French National Proof House (Saint-Étienne) Category D classification certificate.