Model # 3 target Lyman front sight question

[valbehaved]

Hello, everyone...
I recently purchased a #3 target in 38/44, and noticed that it had a Lyman front sight...
Having looked at other target #3s, I noticed that some had Lyman sights installed, and majority had a slightly different front sight..
On my gun, it appears to be a factory installed sight....Please, see picture
Were both types of front sights available from the factory on the target models?
Thanks!

 

[glowe]

That Lyman sight was available from the S&W factory and were installed on guns ordered with that option. Below is a page from a 1912 S&W catalog - item 9.

 

[valbehaved]

Great!
I am assuming that it has no effect on value or rarity?
Thank you!

 

[glowe]

The sight does not, but the fact that it is a target NM3 makes it scarce. Couple that with the caliber and you have a gun that is bordering on rare. If you have any pictures, we would like to see them!.

 

[valbehaved]

extra pictures

Here are some pictures of the gun and the box it came in...
Strangely, as you can see - the box says .44, although the gun is 38/44, two-line address and with a correct finish and barrel length and stated so on the box. Not sure if S&W was using the existing .44 boxes for the early #3 targets (22XX serial range).
The condition is near 97- 98% with just minimal flaking present...

 

[rct269]

The NM#3 Target Models (32-44 & 38-44) were typically shipped in boxes labeled with the applicable caliber. My knee-jerk reaction is you have A box, rather than THE box. That said, you never know for sure!

Ralph Tremaine

 

[valbehaved]

That was my feeling as well...I just could not explain the coincidence of the box being in same finish and the same barrel length as the gun...

 

[rct269]

That was my feeling as well...I just could mt explain the coincidence of the box being in same finish and the same barrel length as the gun...

I wouldn't lose any sleep over not being able to explain such coincidences. I can't quote any percentages applicable to barrel lengths, but the 6 1/2" barrel is as common as dirt. Same goes for finishes, but brings me back to knee-jerk reactions---------and this one is there were very likely substantially fewer nickel guns than blue-----and that knee-jerk is very likely colored by my personal preference.

Ralph Tremaine

And having made what turned out to be a pretty dumb statement, N&J notes ALL the NM#3 Targets (the 32 & 38 caliber guns) carried 6 1/2" barrels. This is what happens when you run your mouth BEFORE you look in the books. And just wait----somebody will pop up with an 8"!!

 

[orbruce]

The box is for the standard 44 Russian New Model #3. The 38-44 Target would have had a different box. If your interesed is selling just the box send me a message.

B. Mower