New Guy with an odd New 3rd model

[Nevada Dan]

I found this forum while searching for a part for my New 3rd Model S&W. The oddity about this weapon is that back in the early 1930s it was converted to .22 cal by my grandfather who was a master blacksmith by trade. He passed away in 1940 before I was born and I inherited the gun from my grandmother.

I'm sure a fair portion of the collector value of this gun was destroyed by the conversion but as it was converted by my grandfather it will be passed down to one of my sons in the future so value is really not an issue for me although, I would be interested in knowing what it is worth having been converted.

I have shot the gun a few times and while it is reasonably accurate, it does have a minor timing problem which I assume is due to the swaged barrel and cylinders as it seems to lock up ok.

On removing the gun from the safe today I checked it in anticipation of cleaning and as I cocked the hammer back the main spring broke into three pieces.

Does anyone on this forum have and idea where I might obtain a replacement main spring?

[glowe]

Welcome to the Forum. I am not sure what you are referring to when you say a New 3rd Model? It would be a great help if you can add more description like the caliber, frame type, any stampings or patent dates and most importantly, pictures of the gun.

It is very possible that mainsprings may be available, but more information is needed.

[opoefc]

I believe the poster means he has a New Model No. 3 revolver, converted to .22RF. A new main spring can be had from Numrich, or Poppertsgunparts.com. Older conversions of these old top break S&Ws to .22RF show up occasionally. I have an American model that was converted to .22RF Single Shot. Often the skills demonstrated in doing these conversions correctly is amazing. Ed.

[Nevada Dan]

I stand corrected. It is a New Model No. 3 revolver. Thanks for the info on Numerich and Poppertsgunparts.com. I will get my camera out and post some photos of the conversion.

I knew this was going to be a good site! -- Dan

[Nevada Dan]

Here are the photos of my New Model No. 3 revolver that was converted to .22 cal back in the 1930s by my grandfather. Serial #25808

[A-37]

Impressive. I admire guys like your grandfather.