S&W Model 3 Russian
Smith & Wesson · Revolver · Out Of Production · 1871
Also known as: S&W No.3 Russian, New Model Russian, Russian Model
Overview
The S&W Model 3 Russian is the Imperial Russian contract version of the Smith & Wesson Model 3 top-break single-action revolver, produced from 1871. Chambered for the .44 Russian cartridge in a six-shot cylinder, this revolver is distinguished from the base Model 3 American by a spur on the trigger guard and a knuckle (finger rest) at the top of the backstrap. The large Russian orders put Smith & Wesson on the map as a major arms maker.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1300 g (45.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Barrel Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Action Type | Single Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Cylinder |
| Muzzle Velocity | 229 m/s (751 fps) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .44 Russian · primary — also known as .44 S&W Russian, 10.6x25mmR
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Features: Top Break, Automatic Ejection, Trigger Guard Spur, Backstrap Knuckle
Service history
Operators
- Imperial Russian Army · adopted 1871
- Imperial Japanese Army
- Ottoman Army
Conflicts
- Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905)
Production
Estimated total produced: 131,000 · Production years: 1871-1878
Russian contracts exceeded 130,000 revolvers across three model variations, plus a smaller commercial run.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1878
Notes
Between 1872 and 1874 the design went through three revisions requested by the Russians, which collectors call the First, Second and Third Model Russians. The .44 Russian cartridge introduced the inside-lubricated bullet seated within the case and is the parent of the later .44 Special and .44 Magnum.
Background
General Alexander Gorloff negotiated the first Russian order in 1871; follow-on contracts pushed total Russian purchases past 130,000 revolvers. The deal both rescued and elevated Smith & Wesson and gave the firearms world the .44 Russian, the ancestor of the .44 Special and .44 Magnum.