In 1878 S&W introduced the New Model No. 3, and it was an instant success. Its design drew on handling and mechanical improvements from its popular predecessors, the American, Russian and Schofield models, and spawned a series of wide ranging variations. All frames for these revolvers were manufactured prior to 1899, which makes the gun an antique, but they were cataloged into the early 1900s. The revolver has the scarce 8 inch barrel and 1 7/16 inch cylinder. The barrel rib has the one-line address. The grips are checkered walnut. The barrel is stamped with the number "4." Unnumbered grips with the back of the right panel hand marked with the initials "AG." The matching serial number appears on the butt, cylinder, and barrel latch.

Fine. The barrel and frame retain 40% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The cylinder retains traces of original blue finish in the flutes with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance. Slight patterns of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are also fine with minor handling marks and some wear along the tops of the overall well defined checkering. Mechanically excellent.