Manufactured form 1872 to 1874 with this example being one of only approximately 600 original factory stocked No. 3 American 2nd Model revolvers. It has the one-line address/patent dates marking on the rib, provision for a lanyard ring (filler screw) on the butt, nicely figured walnut grips, matching assembly numbers on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel latch and barrel, and a right grip panel numbered to the gun. The original and correct S&W detachable walnut stock has blue finished iron attaching hardware and buttplate. The back strap and butt are correctly factory cut for a shoulder stock. The butt serial number is fully legible. The butt of the stock and back of the buttplate have the S&W three digit assembly number "181." Factory stocked No. 3 American 2nd Models are generally found in the over 20000 serial number range like this example.

Fine, retaining 40% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. 60% original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are also fine showing minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The stock retains 30% original blue finish on the attaching iron, retains nearly 97% original blue on the buttplate and has some minor handling evidence on the walnut. Factory stocked S&W No. 3 Americans rarely come up for sale. Do not miss your chance to acquire an elusive S&W variation that is missing from even the most advanced collections! Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection.