Also known as the Model 1926 Hand Ejector Pre-War, the .44 Hand Ejector 3rd Model double action revolver was manufactured from 1926 to 1941. This model was usually available on special order only, not catalogued until 1940 and had a shrouded extractor barrel as requested by the Fort Worth, Texas, dealer Wolf & Klar when production began. Offered here is a rare target version with a 6 1/2 inch barrel. It has been documented that fewer than 100 were manufactured. The accompanying factory letter confirms the gold tri-level 1/8 inch Keith King Long Range front sight and 1/8 inch King #112 rear sight. It was shipped on October 11, 1939 to the Murta-Appleton Co., a S&W distributor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To the best of our knowledge this is the only pre-war shipped example with this type of front sight configuration. The revolver has standard S&W markings, Magna grips, casehardened checkered hammer and serrated trigger and matching serial numbers stamped on the butt, ejector shroud and cylinder. The right grip panel has the number "52555." The assembly number "12803" is marked on the yoke and crane. Comes with the original factory box numbered to the gun, bore brush, "Helpful Hints" pamphlet, USRA bull's eye, factory guarantee notice and "Caution" leaflet. Provenance: Ray Cheely Collection, Chad Gripp Collection.

Excellent. The revolver retains 98% original blue finish showing a patch of discoloration and a scratch on the frame and a cylinder drag line. 99% plus original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are near new with sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The box is very fine showing some scattered minor edge wear. Nearly all of the end label remains. A must have high condition, rare target revolver for the serious pre-World War II Smith & Wesson collector.