Smith & Wesson 1st Model Frontier Revolver .44-40

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.
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