Offered here is a S&W No. 3 American Second Model Revolver with a seldom seen 7 inch barrel. The standard barrel length for this model was 8 inches. In the accompanying factory letter, S&W historian Roy Jinks states the revolver was "probably sold on January 2, 1873 and delivered to the M.W. Robinson Co., New York City, NY. This shipment contained 100 units of the Model 3; 60 units were the American Model and 40 units were of the Model 3 Russian First Model, no specific barrel lengths are listed for either model." The letter further states "Mr. Robinson's company had a standing order with the factory to take whatever Model 3s were available to be shipped to him. In this time frame the factory did list some shipments of 6, 6.5, and 7 inch Model 3 Americans." Also included with the letter is a copy of the S&W factory ledger page for this revolver. The barrel has the one-line legend ending with the 1869 patent date. The butt has a provision for a lanyard ring (filler screw). The right grip panel is numbered to the gun. Matching assembly number "227" appears on the grip frame, cylinder, barrel, and barrel latch.

Fine, retaining 65% of the bright original polish blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. Traces of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are also fine with minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A solid original example of a S&W No. 3 American Second Model Revolver with ultra rare 7 inch barrel. A must have example to complete any S&W No. 3 collection!