My research thus far shows this to be one of only 600 ordered in 1879 for the Japanese Navy with the serials ranging from 9001-9600. The original order called for these to be in .44 Russian with checkered walnut grips, 7" barrel, a lanyard ring, and the sash hook on the trigger guard. The naval possession stamp was applied by the Japanese upon inspection and acceptance. The mechanics are perfect! It is as if it just came off the line. The bore is mirror bright with only the faintest indication that it was ever fired and the chambers are equally high condition. This pistol shows indication that it went through an arsenal rebuild with the serial number of the cylinder not matching the rest of the pistol and the hinge pivot is most probably a replacement. Again, if my research is accurate, these anomalies don't harm the value as they're common to these pistols. Bluing is still evident in the protected areas with the rest faded to an even patina. There is still colour case hardening on the hammer and trigger. Enjoy.
Japanese Navy Smith & Wesson New Mod.3
- Thread starter LawrenceN
- Start date
