Manufactured in 1898, according to the serial number range established by George Madis. The accompanying factory letter indicates this rifle was originally fitted with a 32 inch matted barrel in 32-40 caliber, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, cheekpiece, and Swiss buttplate. It was "returned to Russ (Custom Shop)" for a no. 5 barrel, mid-range and windgauge sights, spur lever, palm rest and no rear sight. On April 9, 1903, the rifle again changed configuration: 28 inch 1/2 octagon barrel in 25-20 caliber, set trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, Swiss cheekpiece and buttplate, mid-range and windgauge sights, and no rear sight, all features exhibited on the rifle, before finally being shipped on April 11, 1903. The no. 3 barrel has the two-line address and "25-20 SS" on the top flat, and the lower tang has the patent date and serial number. The stock also has a factory hard rubber grip cap.

Very fine, retaining 85% plus thinned factory refurbished blue finish. Some muted original case colors remain on the lever, breechblock, and hammer. Nearly 98% original nickel plating remains on the buttplate. The wood is very good with a stabilized crack near the upper tang, some minor dings and scratches and some wear in the checkering. Mechanically excellent.