Deliberately Obsolete: Ottoman S&W New Model No.3 in .44 Henry Rimfire

Published on August 16, 2021
Duration: 6:22

This review details a rare Smith & Wesson New Model No.3 revolver specifically manufactured for the Ottoman Empire, chambered in the obsolete .44 Henry Rimfire caliber. The Ottomans' insistence on rimfire was driven by their existing inventory of Winchester rifles in the same caliber, prioritizing logistical simplicity over modern cartridge advancements. The video highlights key technical differences in the rimfire version, such as a unique hammer and firing pin, and discusses production numbers and contract details.

Quick Summary

The Ottoman Empire requested Smith & Wesson New Model No.3 revolvers chambered in .44 Henry Rimfire to match their large inventory of 1866 Winchester rifles, ensuring logistical simplicity. These revolvers feature a distinct trigger guard spur and a rimfire hammer designed to strike the cartridge rim.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Ottoman S&W New Model No.3
  2. 00:38Historical Context: Ottoman .44 Henry Rimfire
  3. 01:17Rimfire vs. Centerfire Differences
  4. 02:17Technical Features: Rimfire Hammer & Spur
  5. 03:02Ammunition Comparison: .44 Henry vs. .44 American
  6. 03:40Markings & Production Numbers
  7. 04:52Ottoman S&W Contract Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Ottoman Empire request Smith & Wesson revolvers in .44 Henry Rimfire?

The Ottoman Empire standardized on .44 Henry Rimfire ammunition to simplify logistics, matching the caliber of their extensive inventory of 1866 Winchester rifles. This ensured commonality of ammunition between their long guns and sidearms.

What are the key technical differences in the Ottoman S&W New Model No.3 compared to standard models?

The Ottoman contract revolvers feature a spur on the trigger guard for easier handling and a specific rimfire hammer and firing pin designed to strike the top of the .44 Henry Rimfire cartridge rim, unlike centerfire models.

How many .44 Henry Rimfire S&W New Model No.3 revolvers were produced for the Ottoman Empire?

Smith & Wesson produced a total of 5,461 of these specific revolvers. Out of this number, 5,281 were delivered to the Ottoman Empire, with the remaining units sold to Mexico.

What does the 'AFC' marking on the Ottoman S&W New Model No.3 signify?

The 'AFC' marking, typically found on the grip, signifies that the revolver was inspected by A.F. Cameron. He was one of the inspectors employed by Smith & Wesson during the period these firearms were manufactured.

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