The First S&W .38: The "Baby Russian"

Published on August 27, 2020
Duration: 8:01

This video provides an expert-level overview of the Smith & Wesson 'Baby Russian,' the company's first .38 caliber revolver. Ian McCollum, a recognized firearms expert, details its design, comparing it to the larger .44 Russian model and explaining its top-break action, the unique Aldrich safety screw found on early models, and its historical significance. The .38 S&W cartridge and its ballistics are also discussed, along with the firearm's legacy in military adoption.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson 'Baby Russian' was the company's first .38 caliber revolver, introduced as a compact, civilian-oriented firearm. It featured a top-break action with an automatic extractor and, on early models, a unique Aldrich safety screw. The .38 S&W cartridge it fired propelled a 146-grain bullet at around 740 fps.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the S&W Baby Russian
  2. 01:21Comparison with Full-Size Russian Model
  3. 01:58Cartridge and Ballistics
  4. 02:45Design for Pocket Carry
  5. 03:17Mechanical Operation
  6. 04:49The Aldrich Safety Device
  7. 05:39Production Patterns and Variations
  8. 07:12Legacy and Military Use

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the first .38 caliber revolver made by Smith & Wesson?

The first .38 caliber revolver produced by Smith & Wesson was the 'Baby Russian,' officially known as the .38 Single Action 1st Model. It was designed around the newly developed .38 S&W cartridge.

How does the top-break action on the S&W 'Baby Russian' work?

The 'Baby Russian' utilizes a top-break action. When the top strap is pulled upwards, the firearm opens, and a star-shaped automatic extractor simultaneously ejects all spent casings from the cylinder.

What is the Aldrich safety screw on the 'Baby Russian' revolver?

The Aldrich safety screw is a rare feature found on the first 100 'Baby Russian' revolvers. It prevented the action from being opened when the hammer was cocked, acting as an additional safety measure that was later discontinued.

What were the ballistics of the .38 S&W cartridge used in the 'Baby Russian'?

The .38 S&W cartridge, designed for the 'Baby Russian,' fired a 146-grain bullet at approximately 740 feet per second. This made it slightly less powerful than contemporary .38 Colt cartridges.

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