Where to get a part Mod3?

[ebeeby]

I now have two Model 3's in 44 Russian. Still new to these pistols and still researching them. Serial numbers 21xx and 52xx. The 52xx pistol has a broken part - perhaps someone could direct me to a parts supplier for these pistols? I don't know the part name but it is the center ring of the barrel pivot.

The lower number pistol is in well worn nickel with plastic grips which have the S&W logo at the top. The other pistol is blued with a great deal of finish remaining and checkered wood grips, no logo. Were grip materials an option when these pistols were made? Both have 6.5 inch barrels.

Also, is there a go-to book on the model 3?

I am considering having a Texas Colt shop re-nickel the one pistol as the metal is still quite good under what is left of the original nickel. This shop is quite good at hand re-finishing. I'm not a big fan of re-finishing generally, but I think this pistol deserves to be brought back to its original splendor.

 

[glowe]

Welcome to the Forum. First question is what type of Model 3 do you have? They came in Old Old Model (which was basically an American in 44 Russian, Old Model Russian, Russian Model, and New Model 3s. I think, however, the information below should be good for most Model 3s.

These revolvers have not been manufactured for 140 years and parts are few and far between. I did, however, come across what I think you need. If you are describing the ratchet or gear, David Chicoine lists one on his website. If he still has it, grab it, since you will be hard pressed to find another one. Click on link below.

Smith &

 

[ebeeby]

http://i788.photobucket.com/albums/yy162/ebeeby2010/Guns/NMNo3complete_zps735b22aa.jpg
http://i788.photobucket.com/albums/yy162/ebeeby2010/Guns/NMNo3brokenratchet_zps456796be.jpg
http://i788.photobucket.com/albums/yy162/ebeeby2010/Guns/NMNo3nickel_zps473a89e4.jpeg

Thanks for your fast reply. I believe these to be New Model no3 pistols. In the one photo, you can see that the ratchet ring is broken. I don't think this is the same ratchet shown in the link you provided (I could be wrong)
The 3rd photo is of the nickel example. The condition of the nickel makes it look worse than it actually is. Strictly a surface finish issue hence the idea of re-nickeling.

 

[glowe]

You do have a New Model 3 SA in 44 Russian, and you are correct, the standard ratchet fits every model but yours. I would still check with David Chicoine and you can post a WTB accessory on this board. There is also Jack First, but you have to buy the catalog or call, as they do not have much online.

Good Luck.

 

[ebeeby]

Thanks again for the leads. Is there a book on the NM No3 that you recommend?
Eric

 

[glowe]

There is no book that I know of dedicated just to New Model 3s, but you will find the most information available in Roy Jink's book Smith & Wesson 1857-1945, A Handbook for Collectors. Non-first editions are still available on Amazon, etc.

If you are looking for information on gunsmithing these old west guns, David Chicoine's Gunsmithing Guns of the Old West is good and has a section on the New Model 3s.

 

[ebeeby]

Thanks again. Just placed an order on Amazon.

 

[opoefc]

Standard stocks on these models were the hard rubber (what you call plastic) stocks. The checkered wood stocks were an option. Whether or not to refinish the nickel gun, is your choice. It might improve the looks, but it will cost far more than it will add to the value of the gun, and could even lower the value unless the refinisher is very, very, skilled in polishing the gun before applying the new nickel. I challenge any known restorer to refinish a S&W, such as yours, in such a fashion that I cannot tell it's been refinished. Ed.

 

[ebeeby]

Ed - Thanks for your comments. I agree that re-finishing is less than ideal in most cases. It's just that badly worn nickel is a rather hideous look on an otherwise tight pistol. The re-finish is for me as I intend it as a shooter.

Eric

 

[mmaher94087]

My take on refinishing is that I wouldn't buy it at any price (I know you're not selling, but when..) - except for parts - and I'd really need the part. I don't want to sound like a 'downer' but an honest used gun is more interesting to me than a new or older refinish. If a 'new' (140 year old) revolver type (a flashy or SASS piece) is desired, then I suggest the purchase a modern Cimmeron or Navy Arms copy. I'm an antique type; enjoy the scars of the battle type guy. Mike #283

 

[ebeeby]

You do have a New Model 3 SA in 44 Russian, and you are correct, the standard ratchet fits every model but yours. I would still check with David Chicoine and you can post a WTB accessory on this board. There is also Jack First, but you have to buy the catalog or call, as they do not have much online.

Good Luck.

Jack First didn't have it and David Chicoine hasn't replied to my email as yet. Thanks for the leads. If you think of any others, please post them.

Eric

 

[glowe]

Jack First didn't have it and David Chicoine hasn't replied to my email as yet. Thanks for the leads. If you think of any others, please post them.

Eric

Since you have another Model 3 with a functioning ratchet, you may have to find a machinist and have one made. He can use one for a pattern and make another. It is not too difficult to fabricate a ratchet, but will probably not be cheap.

 

[ebeeby]

Since you have another Model 2 with a functioning ratchet, you may have to find a machinist and have one made. He can use one for a pattern and make another. It is not too difficult to fabricate a ratchet, but will probably not be cheap.

Yes, I had thought of that. I'll see if the group who will be "un-boogering" the screws on the blued gun can fabricate a ratchet using the nickel gun part as a template.

By the way, would you happen to know when a 4 digit NM no3 would have been made?

 

[glowe]

By the way, would you happen to know when a 4 digit NM no3 would have been made?

1879 to the early 1880s.

 

[1869]

A refinished antique firearm has forever lost it's intrinsic value. Ugly and scared, they are much valuable than phoney shiny. Most collectors think of a refinished gun as junk, unless it is a very rare gun.

 

[glowe]

A refinished antique firearm has forever lost it's intrinsic value. Ugly and scared, they are much valuable than phoney shiny. Most collectors think of a refinished gun as junk, unless it is a very rare gun.

I would disagree with the "junk" term. There is still an active market for refinished guns and today many collectors acquire refinished revolvers, many as shooters. Prices are definately affected by a new finish, but there is still a market for nicely done refinishes. Take a look at the prices that gunsmiths like David Chicoine is quoting and you will still see good prices realized.

I would agree that if it is not already refinished, I would leave it as is, especially a antique Model 3. Clean it up, lightly polish, remove rust, but leave it original. Having said that, a New Model 3 in the condition you show could sell for as low as $1000, but a refinish like David or Fords offer would bring the value up to $1500+/-, but you by the time you pay for the job, you may not see any profit.

 

[equine]

Hi,
I just was out last night and found this sight and your thred. I have a quick note on the extractor gear for your gun. There are two of the new model gears on Gunbroker.com They are not complete as they lack the latch. However it is some where to start. Listing # 320697404 $150.00 each. Cheep if you need one and are not into machine work.
KR

 

[ebeeby]

Thanks for the heads up. Not sure if the part listed, which is stated as 1st and 2nd model, will work in the New Model 3. Expecting the broken ratchet pistol via fedex today. I'll pull the ratchet ring to see if it is the same.
Thanks again.

 

[ebeeby]

Just disassembled the NM no3 and after removing the insert, the broken ratchet ring looks exactly like the ones listed. I have an email into the seller to ask if he has any positive info that his ratchet rings will NOT fit the NM no3.

 

[ebeeby]

Ha! This NM no3 has a broken ratchet ring from a No1 or No2 in it! So I am still on the hunt for a ratchet ring for a NM no3.