Bidspirit auction | Smith & Wesson 1st Model

Smith & Wesson 1st Model Frontier Revolver .44-40 - For sale in this lot is a Smith & Wesson First Model, Double Action ”Frontier” Revolver, chambered in .44-40. The revolver is known as one of the three ”first model” variants, alongside the First Model Russian, and the First Model Favorite, and is distinguished by its 1 9/16” cylinder. The revolver utilizes a top break, serrated target hammer, factory Smith & Wesson hard rubber grips, automatic cartridge ejector, nickel finish, a 4” barrel, and a six shot cylinder. The revolver is marked with the correct pre-1900 patents, and reads ”Smith & Wesson Springfield MASS. U.S.A. PAT'D JAN. 17 & 24. 65 - JULY 11. 65 AUG 24. 69 JULY 25. 71 DEC. 2. 79 MAY 11 & 25 1880”. The .44-40 was a favorite of the renowned marksmen Ira Paine, who owned two of the revolvers, Texas outlaw John Wesley Hardin was toting a .44 Frontier when he was killed in the Acme Saloon, and is seen in major television and cinema in the 2007 reboot of 3:10 to Yuma, and Boardwalk Empire. The Frontier was manufactured between 1886 to 1913, with 15,340 examples made, this is a low serial example, shipped pre-1890. Adding to its scarcity, it shows good finish for age, even showing naturally aged, factory blue on the trigger guard. Additionally, the revolver shows good mechanical condition, with a good bore, showing strong rifling with some darkness, and a tight action. Although cataloged until 1913, all frames were manufactured prior to 1899 making the entire production of this model classified as an antique for ATF purposes. Serial Number: 5637. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. Condition: For a complete representation of condition please review pictures. Some items may have additional images, if so please visit our website directly. It is the buyer's responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.