Early S&W Third Model .38 S&W

Published on May 15, 2025
Duration: 2:23

This video showcases an early Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver manufactured in 1898. The presenter demonstrates its operation, highlighting the .38 Smith & Wesson caliber and contrasting it with the larger .38 Special. The review praises the typical Smith & Wesson build quality and smooth double-action trigger, while also noting the firearm shoots high and suggesting a modification to the front sight.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver, manufactured in 1898, is chambered in .38 Smith & Wesson. It features a five-shot capacity, a top-break action, and a smooth double-action trigger, showcasing typical high build quality for its era. The .38 S&W cartridge is smaller than the .38 Special and not interchangeable.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Old Revolvers
  2. 00:07Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless
  3. 00:14Year of Manufacture and Caliber
  4. 00:20.38 S&W vs .38 Special Comparison
  5. 00:47Firearm Specifications
  6. 00:50Build Quality and Action
  7. 00:58Top Break Ejection
  8. 01:09Modern Pocket Revolver Ideas
  9. 01:21Shooting Demonstration
  10. 02:02Shooting Impressions and POI
  11. 02:12Conclusion and Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver shown in the video?

The Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver featured in the video is chambered in .38 Smith & Wesson. This is a distinct and smaller cartridge than the .38 Special, which will not fit into its cylinder.

When was the Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver manufactured?

According to the serial number, the specific Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver presented in the video was manufactured in 1898. It represents an early example of this model.

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson Third Model Safety Hammerless revolver?

This revolver is a five-shot, top-break model known for its safety hammerless design and excellent, smooth double-action trigger. It exemplifies the typical high build quality of Smith & Wesson firearms from that era.

Does the .38 Special cartridge fit in a .38 Smith & Wesson revolver?

No, the .38 Special cartridge is larger than the .38 Smith & Wesson cartridge. It will not fit into the cylinder of a firearm designed for the .38 S&W, as demonstrated in the video.

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