Model 3 Target

[red9]

I have always been a target hand ejector collector, the primary exception being the singleshot pistols. But every now and then I get turned on by an earlier gun. I have always wanted a model 3 target in 44 Russian, and finally found one yesterday. Matching butt, cylinder, barrel and latch; unnumbered walnut stocks. No factory return marks, but possibly a very good quality refinish (Were these polished before or after stamping?) Late production, #35601. One problem - the Lyman front sight had an ivory bead at the auction viewing, but missing when I received the gun. Bummer, I crawled around on the floor looking for the tiny dot with no luck, but not a dealbreaker. I' be posting another thread on the Other Makes forum with a few other of my 44 Russians.

Bob

 

[rct269]

Not having been there, I clearly don't know when they were stamped; but it seems to me it was before polishing. That's because it also seems to me the act of stamping is going to raise a "burr" (for lack of a more accurate term). I can neither see nor feel any "burrs" on finished guns.

Make sense?

Ralph Tremaine

 

[mrcvs]

What holds the ivory bead in place, to begin with?

 

[opoefc]

Are you sure the Ivory Police didn't confiscate the ivory bead ? I think the auction house owes you a replacement job. Ed.

 

[rct269]

STICKY STUFF

What holds the ivory bead in place, to begin with?

Glue??

RT

 

[mmaher94087]

red9, I have trouble believing your NM#3 Target has been anywhere near a refinisher. I know that pictures can lie but I believe the finish is original. Very nice revolver. I hope I can look that good after 120+ years.

 

[model3sw]

Congrats Bob. Here's a trick for you. On that model, especially the later ones (your was likely a special order 1912 or thereabout), if wood grips are original to the gun, serial numbers are sometimes "penciled". Get yourself an Ultraviolet pocket flash light (like flashlight they call a blood-tracker in Gander Mountain) or from any other place. I have several I use at work during Crash Investigation. Shut the house lights off and look at the underside of the grips. The pencil marking should illuminate enough that you could see them. Might be interesting what else you find. On one of mind, in addition to the matching serial number, I also obtained the entire name of the original owner there, hand written script writing, in pencil, not able to be seen in regular light. I'm waiting on a letter to see if that was the name of the person that originally ordered it. Call me if you need anything else. I need to talk to you about the Ladysmith you were interested in. I found it.

 

[model3sw]

No factory return marks, but possibly a very good quality refinish (Were these polished before or after stamping?) Late production, #35601.

Bob

Bob, Yours looks great I'm excited for you. Now we have ANOTHER subject to discuss. I think the assembly process fitting done, sanding out to near ready for finish. Polishing likely after roll stamp but stamp should not be light or blurred, just not 'sharp' to the feel. THEN blued. GOOD LUCK with your great find. I'm happy it is in such caring hands.

 

[ebeeby]

Yes, an exceptional piece and one that is on my list.....

Thanks for sharing