NM n°3 Lanyard ring

[Wess Smithon]

Hello everybody,

I've a question for our specialists:
Was it possible to ad in factory a lanyard-ring on a New Model n°3, and then re-stamp the serial number on the butt because the added ring is located in the original number.
I'm sorry but I don't have a picture and I hope I was clear enough.
Thanks for your answers

W&S

 

[Masterpiece]

Hi Michel,

Generally if you find a Relocated Serial Number on these New Model #3's it's usually an indication the Lanyard Ring was installed after it left the Factory!! It is possible,if it's a US shipped Revolver,that it was returned to S&W to have the work done after it was originally shipped!! Most often you'll find this on New Models that were shipped to Japan,although it doesn't necessarily mean the one you are inquiring about was shipped there!! The Japanese shipped New Model's had these Lanyard Rings installed at one of their Arsenals & the Serial Number was relocated at that time!! I've also seen them on NM's that were shipped to other countries as well so if you have an idea were it was shipped or could post a photo maybe we can help a little more!! There were quite a few styles of Lanyard Rings installed by various countries & a photo would certainly help in identifying the Lanyard Ring and/or who installed it!!

 

[cflier]

I'm no expert in New Model # 3s, but I have several Safety Hammerless with factory lanyard rings. All of them that shipped befor 1900 have no serial # on the butt, but 2 shipped after 1900, in 1904 and 1912 have the hole for the lanyard ring drilled through the number. All of them have a serial number on the bottom corner of the frame under the left grip. I would check for a serial number in that location and if it is present it would be a strong indicator to me that it was a factory installation.
Mark

 

[Wess Smithon]

Thanks for your answers and specially to Masterpiece!!!
With his help we find out that the ring and the relocated serial number aren't fake.

By and thank you
W&S