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

Published on August 16, 2021
Duration: 6:22

This video provides an in-depth look at a rare Smith & Wesson New Model No.3 revolver, specifically an Ottoman contract variant chambered in .44 Henry Rimfire. Ian McCollum details the historical context, technical specifications, and unique features of this obsolete rimfire configuration, contrasting it with contemporary centerfire models. The review highlights the logistical reasons behind the Ottoman Empire's request for rimfire handguns and examines specific markings and production details.

Quick Summary

The Ottoman contract Smith & Wesson New Model No.3 revolver is notable for being chambered in the obsolete .44 Henry Rimfire caliber, a choice driven by the Ottoman Empire's logistical needs due to their existing inventory of 1866 Winchester rifles. This variant features distinct design elements like a trigger guard spur and a rimfire-specific hammer and firing pin mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Ottoman Rimfire S&W No.3
  2. 00:38Historical Context: Ottoman Caliber Choice
  3. 01:17Rimfire vs. Centerfire Debate
  4. 02:17Technical Features: Rimfire vs. Centerfire
  5. 03:02Ammunition Comparison: .44 Henry Rimfire vs. .44 American
  6. 03:40Markings and Production Details
  7. 04:52Ottoman Contract Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Ottoman S&W New Model No.3 unique?

This specific S&W New Model No.3 is unique because it was manufactured for the Ottoman Empire and chambered in the obsolete .44 Henry Rimfire caliber, a departure from S&W's standard centerfire offerings of the era.

Why did the Ottoman Empire request .44 Henry Rimfire revolvers?

The Ottoman Empire requested .44 Henry Rimfire revolvers for logistical simplicity, as they already maintained a large inventory of 1866 Winchester rifles chambered in the same rimfire cartridge.

What are the key visual differences between this rimfire S&W and a centerfire model?

Key differences include a spur on the trigger guard, a specific rimfire hammer designed to strike the rim, and a firing pin that strikes the top of the rim rather than the center of the cartridge base.

How many Ottoman S&W New Model No.3 revolvers were produced?

Smith & Wesson produced a total of 5,461 units of this specific Ottoman contract revolver. The majority, 5,281, were delivered to Turkey, with the remainder sold elsewhere.

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