Spanish Knock Off of S&W No 3

[1000island]

Hi,

A friend of mine brought me an old, beat up revolver that he said belonged to his Grandfather.

I am certainly no expert but It is stamped Spain so I assume it is a Spanish copy of a S&W No 3, which I read was very common. Since “Spain” was written in English I read it may have been made expressly for export to an English speaking country.

I told my friend I would find out what I can about it. I am mainly curious to see if anyone can identify the manufacturer.

Also, the top of the barrel is stamped 1926 - which I assume to be the year it was manufactured. Right next to 1926 it is stamped C 38 so I am also assuming it is some sort of .38 but I am not sure what type of .38.

I am attaching some photos. I would sincerely appreciate any thoughts you might have.

Thanks, Stay safe, God Bless!

 

[ISCS Yoda]

Hard to say which .38; the 1928 date makes it late enough to be .38 Special, .38 S&W, .38 Long Colt, and maybe others I can't come up with.

I'd wager the gun was made in the Eibar region of Spain. Back in the day there were dozens of small shops making copies of major manufacturers guns through a loophole in Spanish patent law.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

Stick any 38 special or 9mm in the muzzle, if it almost goes in to the brass, it is a 38 and not a DA NO.3. If the 38 is swallowed whole, it is a 44 (most likely) and it is a copy of a Double Action No. 3.

My bet is the cartridge is a 38 S&W! (1926 is pretty late to be copying No 3!)

Ivan