Introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1878 the New Model 3 Revolver was an improved design of the original Model 3. Although this model was cataloged into the early 1900s, all frames were manufactured by 1898. This is an excellent example of a New Model 3 Revolver. The top of the barrel rib is marked with the two line address and patent dates "SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT'D JAN 17 & 24. 65. JULY 11. 65./AUG 24. 69. APR 20. 75 FEB 20. & DEC 18. 1877 REISSUE JULY 25. 1871." Equipped with a pinned blade front sight and a notch rear sight on the barrel latch. This single action revolver built on a top-break action has a short ejector housing, 6-shot fluted cylinder and knuckle on the back strap. The matching serial number is stamped on the butt, rear face of the cylinder, barrel and barrel latch. Blue finish with casehardened hammer and trigger guard. The revolver is fitted with factory checkered walnut grips on a round butt frame. The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. Accompanied by its original factory green box numbered to the gun with the directions label on the inside of the lid and the correct green end label.

Excellent plus. The revolver retains 98% original bright blue finish showing only the slightest collector type handling marks and minor flaking on the cylinder. The hammer and trigger guard retain nearly all of their vivid and bright original case colors. The grips are excellent with crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Box is good with a protective wax for preservation applied to the inside and showing worn edges. A No. 3 that would be nearly impossible to improve upon.