Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector First Model “Triple Lock” Target – .44 S&W Special

Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector First Model “Triple Lock” Target – .44 S&W Special

Early Production Example | Serial No. 4353 | Marble Front Sight | Target Configuration

Overview

This Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector First Model “Triple Lock” Target is an early production example of one of the most respected double-action revolvers ever manufactured. Introduced in 1908 as Smith & Wesson’s first 20th-century large-frame hand-ejector design, the Triple Lock quickly established a reputation for exceptional precision, strength, and mechanical refinement.

Chambered in .44 S&W Special, this revolver features the distinctive third locking lug on the crane, the mechanical hallmark that gave the model its famous nickname and contributed to its extraordinary cylinder rigidity and accuracy potential.

Serial number 4353 places this revolver firmly within the early production range (1–15,375) manufactured between 1908 and 1915, making it a scarce and desirable early example from the original New Century production run.

This revolver remains in excellent condition, retaining sharp markings, strong original bluing, and correct early features consistent with a period target-configured Triple Lock.

---

Historical Significance

The .44 Hand Ejector First Model represents a milestone in American revolver development:

• first large-frame S&W revolver of the 20th century
• first platform chambered for the new .44 Special cartridge
• only Smith & Wesson revolver ever produced with the Triple Lock mechanism
• widely regarded by shooters and historians—including Elmer Keith—as among the finest revolvers ever made

Production lasted only from 1908 to 1915, with approximately 15,376 total revolvers manufactured, after which the complex third locking lug was discontinued to reduce cost and simplify production.

---

Target Model Features

This revolver exhibits desirable Target Model characteristics, including:

• raised Marble front sight(marked “MARBLE”)
• long barrel target configuration (7-1/2")
• checkered trigger face
• early pattern square-butt walnut stocks with S&W medallions
• precision-fit N-frame construction typical of pre-war S&W target revolvers

Factory target-configured Triple Locks are significantly less common than standard service-sight examples and are especially sought after by advanced collectors.

---

Condition

This example remains in excellent vintage condition with:

• strong, even original bluing throughout
• crisp barrel and frame markings
• sharp edges and flats consistent with careful preservation
• correct early double diamond checkered walnut stocks with vintage medallions
• matching visible assembly numbers consistent with period manufacture

One minor handling mark is present on the left side of the frame near the hammer, noted for accuracy and transparency. Otherwise, the revolver presents extremely well for its age and class.

---

Mechanical Design: The Triple Lock System

The defining feature of the model is its three-point cylinder locking system, consisting of:

1. rear center-pin lock
2. ejector-rod front lock
3. additional locking lug on the crane

This third locking point dramatically increased cylinder alignment rigidity and contributed to the revolver’s reputation for exceptional accuracy and durability—features rarely equaled in later production revolvers.

---

Specifications

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model:.44 Hand Ejector First Model “New Century” (Triple Lock)
Type: Double-Action Revolver
Caliber:.44 S&W Special
Capacity: 6
Frame: N-Frame (large frame)
Finish: Blued
Barrel Length: Target configuration (long barrel)
Front Sight: Marble target front sight
Trigger: Checkered target trigger
Stocks: Checkered walnut with S&W medallions
Serial Number: 4353
Production Period: 1908–1915
Configuration: Early Target Model variant

---

Collector Notes

Early-serial Triple Locks remain among the most desirable pre-war Smith & Wesson revolvers. Their limited production span, complex lockwork, and association with the introduction of the .44 Special cartridge place them at the center of serious American revolver collecting.

Examples retaining strong original finish, crisp markings, and correct target features—particularly within the early serial range—are increasingly difficult to locate and continue to appreciate in collector interest.

A factory historical letter from the Smith & Wesson historian would likely provide shipment destination and configuration confirmation, further enhancing documentation value.

---

FREE SHIPPING – U.S. shipping only where lawful. FFL required.

An FFL is required for shipping upon purchase of this item. Please send a copy of your FFL with the product name in the subject line to: info@tylergunworks.com