Production of these revolvers started around 1886 after the tooling was purchased from Ludwig Loewe. Although approximately 35,000 were manufactured, these revolvers are very rare in the U.S. and are reportedly just as rare in Russia. This revolver is also in collector choice condition considering this was a sidearm model that saw hard use and had a low survivability rate. It has the Tula Arsenal Cyrillic marking on the barrel rib which includes the manufacture date "1890," the serial number, and a double headed Russian eagle. The cylinder is also numbered to the gun. Other Russian markings are present throughout including the Russian acceptance marking for inspector N. Kushakevich on the frame (left side) and barrel. For more information see www.russianrevolvers.com. Provenance: Joe Leiper Collection.

Very good plus, retaining 30% original blue finish on the barrel and frame and strong traces of original blue finish on the cylinder flutes with the balance a smooth brown patina. The grips are fine with some minor-moderate dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A rare and above average conditioned Tula Arsenal copy of a No. 3 Russian that is often missing from even the most advanced S&W collections.