Hi There,


This is NOT a New Model #3. If one looks at the bottom strap under
the cylinder, one will see the knurled surface of the extractor gear
catch. That catch was used ONLY on #3's PRIOR to the New Model.
The number (serial?) stamped on the extractor housing is too high
for a 1st or 2nd model American but we don't know if that is the
serial number or not.

The legend stamped on the barrel is the correct English stamping
for a domestically sold OOM. The "Russian Model" stamp at the
end wasn't used on the NM#3.

The grip has certainly been modified and does look like the NM#3
but it isn't one. Another tell-tail are the two arrows on the extractor
gear and barrel. This was done very late in the series in an attempt
to help prevent re-assembly mistakes.

It would be nice to see the butt of the grip for evidence of the
original serial number.


Cheers!
Webb