Only approximately 310 Smith & Wesson New Model 3 Australian revolvers were manufactured, all with nickel finish, 7 inch barrels, and detachable shoulder stocks. They were shipped to Australia for the Southern Australian Colonial Police and carried in holster and scabbard on horseback in the wild Australian outback. The first shipment was for 250 revolvers and was sent to Smith & Wesson's large New York distributor M.W. Robinson for the Australian Government on December 14, 1881. Mr. Robinson had received an order for 250 Smith & Wesson New Model 3 revolvers from the Australian Government earlier in the year. The revolver has the two-line address/patent dates barrel rib marking, mismatched right grip panel, matching numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel and barrel latch, and an Australian broad arrow proof stamped on the butt. The leather holster is unmarked. The walnut shoulder stock is closely numbered to a different Australian contract gun, (number "12830") and marked with an Australian broad arrow. The original Australian leather stock scabbard is stamped with the rack number "142" and an Australian broad arrow on the inside.

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original nickel finish with the balance a smooth gray patina mixed with scattered minor pitting. Very good original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are very good with minor handling marks and an area of wear in the checkering (right panel). Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good with flex wear and some missing stitching. The stock is also very fine with 90% original nickel on the attaching hardware and minor handling marks on the walnut. The stock scabbard is very good with some flex wear and handling marks and tight stitching overall. Hard to find in such nice condition, this Australian New Model 3 will be a great addition to any S&W collection!