S&W's Pistol-Carbine for the South Australian Police

Published on December 1, 2020
Duration: 9:06

This guide details the installation of a shoulder stock onto a Smith & Wesson No. 3 New Model Revolver, effectively converting it into a carbine. The process involves a simple, secure attachment mechanism. The video, presented by firearms expert Ian McCollum, highlights the historical significance and practical application of this rig for the South Australian Police, emphasizing its utility for long-range accuracy and rapid reloading in frontier conditions.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson No. 3 rig, adopted by the South Australian Police, featured a top-break action and the .44 Russian cartridge with internal lubrication. Its key innovation was a detachable shoulder stock, converting the revolver into a carbine for improved long-range accuracy, essential for frontier policing duties. Specialized holsters were also developed for this unique setup.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to SA Police S&W No. 3 Rig
  2. 02:16S&W Contract and Order Details
  3. 03:12Technical Features and Finish
  4. 04:01Mechanism and Caliber
  5. 04:37Shoulder Stock Attachment and Accuracy
  6. 05:34Specialized Holster Systems
  7. 07:48Retirement and Surplus Sale

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Smith & Wesson No. 3 rig suitable for the South Australian Police?

The S&W No. 3 rig was ideal for the South Australian Police due to its reliable top-break action, the .44 Russian cartridge's internal lubrication for dusty conditions, and the option of a shoulder stock for enhanced long-range accuracy, crucial for frontier policing.

How did the shoulder stock convert the S&W No. 3 revolver into a carbine?

The shoulder stock attached securely to the revolver's grip frame via a notch and a tightened screw, creating a stable three-point contact. This, combined with the longer barrel and sight radius, transformed the handgun into a more accurate carbine for extended range engagements.

What was unique about the holster system for the S&W No. 3 rig?

The rig included a specialized, large leather holster designed to carry the revolver with the shoulder stock already attached, allowing for immediate carbine deployment. It was intended for saddle mounting and came with a separate holster for the stock alone.

Where did most surviving S&W No. 3 South Australian Police contract revolvers end up?

After being declared obsolete by 1953, the entire inventory of these S&W No. 3 revolvers was sold as surplus to an arms company in California. Consequently, most surviving examples are now found in the United States.

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