The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was shipped on December 1, 1876 and delivered to M.W. Robinson Co., New York City with a 6 1/2 inch barrel, nickel finish, butt swivel and smooth walnut grips. This was an order of 60 units of which 40 were blued and 20, like this revolver, were plated in nickel. The barrel rib has the one-line address/patent dates marking ending with "RUSSIAN MODEL." Illegible or mismatched assembly marks. The left grip panel features a relief carved Mexican eagle, suggesting that this revolver spent time along the U.S./Mexico border. Its well served frontier life is evident in the improvised front sight. Those living on the frontier had to be their own gunsmith. A true American frontier sidearm, the Model No. 3 Russian 3rd Model revolver was carried by celebrated lawman Pat Garrett and notorious outlaw Charlie Pitts (aka Sam Wells). Provenance: The John Fox Collection

Fine as proudly exhibiting authentic use and care while retaining 70% original nickel finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance, a few patches of pitting and aged worn grips with defined carving. Mechanically excellent. A 3rd Model Russian with great western character.