This rare Pre-Model 24 revolver is fitted with the scarce and desirable 4 inch barrel. Although the Smith & Wesson catalog listed the .44 Hand Ejector Fourth Model as only available with a 6 1/2 inch barrel and in blue finish, the factory did make limited quantities of 4, 5 and 5 1/2 inch barrel lengths and nickel finish. The accompanying factory letter confirms the 4 inch barrel, bright blue finish and smooth rosewood target grips. The revolver was shipped on November 26, 1954, and delivered to H.H. Harris Co. of Chicago, Illinois. It has standard S&W factory markings, red insert ramp front sight and adjustable square notch rear sight. Matching serial numbers are found on the butt, cylinder and ejector shroud. The assembly number "16513" is stamped on the yoke and crane. Comes with a S&W gold box for a Model 1926 Military revolver that has the Model 1950 Target sticker on the lid. The box is numbered to the gun. Provenance: Chad Gripp collection.

Excellent plus. The revolver retains over 99% original bright blue finish showing a light cylinder drag line. 99% plus original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are excellent with a few very scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The box is fine with a partial tear on a short end of the lid and some minor wear. A solid example of a S&W Model of 1950 Pre-Model 24 Target revolver with a scarce 4 inch barrel!