I purchased this Baby Russian last week. This morning I decided to try the ole girl out. I ran a couple of cylinders of ammo through the revolver and was pleased with the results. At 8 yards she is far more accurate than I am. Afterwards, I cleaned her up good and placed her in her new home. Does anyone know the ship date for serial number 24934? Sorry for the poor quality of the pictures. The more I learn about Top-Break Revolvers the more intrigued I become.

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Duckhunter - nice 38 Single Action First Model you have there. Looks to be totally original and unmolested with original stocks and nickel finish. Baby Russians were manufactured from 1876 to 1877, with 25,548 made. Your serial number is close to the end of production, so likely made in 1877. Ship dates are more tricky with little available information on shipping dates, so the only way to get an official date is to request a factory letter from Roy Jinks.

Thanks so much! I was thinking 1877 but was unsure. I really do enjoy learning about antique S&Ws.

I have a Baby Russian in .38 S&W nickel plated serial #98 both on butt and back of cylinder 98% on top of barrel last two numbers were 1875, reissue 1871 so I guess it was 1875 made but it was last shot with black powder as the muzzle is slightly rusted ( I will leave as is) but I have concerns about firing it as to its age, still tight when dry fired as cylinder locks tight with no forward or back movement tight as a drum. I am a reloader and will try some black powder substitute with a .38 wadcutter type bullet, let you know how it goes.

Nice looking gun! I have serial 161** and it shipped in February 1877. I load very light .38 S&W for it and it is very accurate over 10 yds.