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- May 26, 2025
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Hello. I ran across a Smith & Wesson Model 3 "American" revolver that seems to have an unusual modification for a shoulder stock.
Unlike the models that were made at the factory for a stock (and thus accepts the S&W manufactured stock), this one has what looks to be some sort of 'insert & twist' type of attachment. According to Charles Pate in his book Smith and Wesson American Model, Smith & Wesson did not manufacture a shoulder stock until a year and a half after the Number 3 was introduced, and the first shoulder stock wasn't sold until March 1873. He also states that "there are known non-factory stocks for the early Model Three, some surprisingly well made..." I suspect/assume that this may be an example referred to.
Try as I might, I'm unable to find any find of stock that might go with this modification. It could be a one of a kind modification from way back vs a known/traditional type of modification. The work appears to be well done which makes me think a competent gunsmith may have done the work.
It was suggested on another forum that it might be cut for a Lefauchuex cavalry carbine pistol as they seem to have a similar method of attachment.
Here's are pictures of the back strap on the S&W showing the modification for a stock to be attached and the Lefauchuex back strap. The stock used for the Lefauchuex is also shown.
I'm hoping that someone here might be able to shed some light on this or let me know about what kind of stock this might have used.
Thank You.
S&W
Lefauchuex
Unlike the models that were made at the factory for a stock (and thus accepts the S&W manufactured stock), this one has what looks to be some sort of 'insert & twist' type of attachment. According to Charles Pate in his book Smith and Wesson American Model, Smith & Wesson did not manufacture a shoulder stock until a year and a half after the Number 3 was introduced, and the first shoulder stock wasn't sold until March 1873. He also states that "there are known non-factory stocks for the early Model Three, some surprisingly well made..." I suspect/assume that this may be an example referred to.
Try as I might, I'm unable to find any find of stock that might go with this modification. It could be a one of a kind modification from way back vs a known/traditional type of modification. The work appears to be well done which makes me think a competent gunsmith may have done the work.
It was suggested on another forum that it might be cut for a Lefauchuex cavalry carbine pistol as they seem to have a similar method of attachment.
Here's are pictures of the back strap on the S&W showing the modification for a stock to be attached and the Lefauchuex back strap. The stock used for the Lefauchuex is also shown.
I'm hoping that someone here might be able to shed some light on this or let me know about what kind of stock this might have used.
Thank You.
S&W
Lefauchuex
