Elmer Merrifield Keith, born March 8, 1899, was many things; a rancher, cowboy, big game hunter, shooting sports legend, and innovator in the world of magnum cartridges. He is responsible for the development of the iconic .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .41 Magnum cartridges. The included letter of provenance states the revolver was purchased from the estate of Elmer Keith in March of 2015 and confirms the model, serial number, and caliber. The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped from Ruger in June of 1971. Finally a laminated copy of a page from Elmer Keith's personal collection book lists the revolver by serial number and caliber. Fixed blade front and adjustable rear notch sights, standard markings, scarce brass grip frame, and custom tuned trigger. The grips are smooth with an inset silver elk head on the left panel and silver inscription oval on the right inscribed "Elmer Keith" in fancy script. The revolver also includes a rare first edition hardcover copy of Keith's now out of print autobiography "Hell, I Was There!".

Excellent. 95% plus original blue finish remains with a visible ding on the front sight blade, slight rotation marks on the cylinder, light muzzle wear, and the beginnings of a darker patina on the brass grip frame. The grips are very good as altered (see above) with some small dings. Mechanically excellent. A rare opportunity to own a piece from the collection of the legendary outdoorsman Elmer Keith!