Near relic Smith and Wesson Russian Model(?)

[Anzac15]

Happened into a local gun shop today, and this was sitting in the case.
I recognized what it was immediately, and brought it home. What I have here is apparently a near relic Smith and Wesson Model 3 'Russian Model', or a counterfeit of one. I cannot find a single marking on it (with the exception of whatever is etched into the bottom of the butt)and the finger rest on the trigger guard was either broken off or filed off. Grips appear to be hand made.
I believe Ludwig Loews manufactured these as well? As stated, I cannot find a mark on it yet..if there were, they may have been worn away.
Either way, this is a very interesting example. Any thoughts on it will be welcome.

Information

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[mrclark303]

Very nice find, Spanish copy perhaps?

I used to have a Nickel plated Model 3 chamberd in .44 American.

[rcathey]

Very nice find, Spanish copy perhaps?

I'd lean that way. I sold a copy of a Colt Single Action just the other day. It had the same "feel" as this S&W.

[mrclark303]

I'd lean that way. I sold a copy of a Colt Single Action just the other day. It had the same "feel" as this S&W.

Attachment 102145Attachment 102144Attachment 102146

Interesting piece, these copies have an interest all of their own.

Thanks for sharing guys.

[Anzac15]

I believe may indeed be Spanish the more I look at it.

[painter777]

I believe I have the correct model in mind...
IIRC I recall reading a tid bit by S&W Guru Jim Supica that there was some Spanish/Cuban military use of these during the Spanish American War.
He had seen a few bring backs that had large numbers stamped on the butt. I recalled this after seeing the ?markings? on the bottom of your grip.
Some US built were shipped to US/Cuban buyers, then shipped to Cuba per a few S&W letters I read on the old S&W forums.

My Father loved any Top Break and said he'd seen some very well worn left overs when in the Philippines.

Is that circled area the stud left from a broken off Swivel/landyard ?
Wonder if Electrolosis (sp?) would reveal any markings ?

Thanks for sharing it, really interesting find. PLease keep us up to date on your findings.
I found a link to a Spanish made one.......

Spanish copy of the Smith & Wesson #3 Russian for sale.

[RCS]

I looked for years for a nice S&W Russian that I could afford - but never able to get anything. then I thought, just buy the new Uberti Italian S&W Russian in 44 Russian caliber and shoot it all you want. very accurate in 44 Russian and very easy to reload. I use 250 gr lead bullets and Unique powder but have seen black powder shot well too

[Anzac15]

I'm beginning to lean more and more to the Spanish theory.
This one did not have a lanyard loop..that 'circle' is a crudely etched zero or 'O'. One figure looks like it may be a 4, but again, too crude to really tell.
I've really been going over this revolver tonight, and if is Spanish, its one of their versions of 'Khyber Pass' firearms. I have found one number on it..1470, and it is on the underside of the latch. And is stamped. So far that's the only 'official' looking marking on it.

[painter777]

Anzac,
Look at this one....... I guess if someone is sending for a letter on a S&W, have it mailed back to:
VIP
Your Address

smith W new model no.3 hank williams jr - Antique Guns at GunBroker.com : 824657905

[rcathey]

Anzac,
Look at this one....... I guess if someone is sending for a letter on a S&W, have it mailed back to:
VIP
Your Address

If I’m following the insinuation, I’d have course correct ya.

I grew up in Murray, KY. Just a bit across the border from Paris, TN.
Hank Jr. does indeed live in Paris. He was somewhat frequently spotted around Paris and Murray.

And that’s your non-firearm related dose of trivia for the day!