Smith & Wesson Model of 1950 .44 Special Target Revolver "Pre-Model 24"

Smith & Wesson Model of 1950 .44 Special Target Revolver – Pre-Model 24 – 6½" Barrel – Nickel Finish

Serial Number: S146287

Overview

This Smith & Wesson Model of 1950 .44 Special Target, commonly known as the pre-Model 24, is a classic five-screw N-frame revolver from the early post-war golden era of Smith & Wesson craftsmanship.

Built prior to the adoption of model numbers in 1957, this revolver represents the adjustable-sight target variant of Smith & Wesson’s .44 Special N-frame platform. Chambered in the legendary .44 Special cartridge, the Model of 1950 Target was developed for shooters who wanted a precision sporting revolver with the strength and balance of the large N-frame paired with refined target sights and handling characteristics.

This example features the desirable 6½" barrel configuration and scarce factory nickel finish, a classic combination favored by target shooters and collectors alike.

Serial number S146287 places production in the early 1950s during the five-screw era, widely regarded as one of the highest quality manufacturing periods in Smith & Wesson history.

Model of 1950 Target Background

Introduced shortly after World War II, the Model of 1950 .44 Special Target served as the adjustable-sight counterpart to the fixed-sight Model of 1950 Military (.44 Special), later designated the Model 21.

These revolvers retained traditional hand-fitted construction and were produced in comparatively limited numbers prior to the transition to stamped model numbers in 1957, making authentic pre-Model 24 examples increasingly desirable among collectors of early N-frame revolvers.

The .44 Special chambering itself holds a special place in American revolver history and was famously championed by Elmer Keith during the development of the .44 Magnum.

Collector Features

This revolver exhibits several characteristics especially valued by Smith & Wesson collectors:

• pre-model number production
• five-screw N-frame configuration
• chambered in .44 Special
• desirable 6½" target barrel length
• scarce factory nickel finish
• adjustable micrometer rear sight
• serrated ramp front sight
• early post-war S-prefix serial range
• classic Magna walnut grips with medallions and matching serial

Five-screw N-frame revolvers represent the earliest post-war configuration and are widely considered among the finest examples of Smith & Wesson revolver manufacturing.

Condition Notes

This revolver remains in excellent vintage condition with strong nickel finish and well-preserved factory configuration consistent with careful ownership. The revolver retains its original character and presents as a classic example of an early Model of 1950 Target revolver.

Features

• Smith & Wesson Model of 1950 .44 Special Target
• pre-Model 24 configuration
• chambered in .44 Special
• desirable 6½" barrel
• scarce factory nickel finish
• adjustable rear target sight
• serrated ramp front sight
• five-screw N-frame
• classic walnut Magna grips with S&W medallions - Diamond Checkered with matching serial number
• early S-prefix production revolver
• Springfield, Massachusetts manufacture

Specifications

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: Model of 1950 .44 Special Target (pre-Model 24)
Caliber:.44 Special
Action: Double-action / single-action revolver
Frame Size: N-frame
Barrel Length: 6½"
Finish: Nickel
Sights: Adjustable rear / serrated ramp front
Grips: Walnut Magna with S&W medallions
Configuration: Five-screw frame
Serial Number: S146287
Country of Manufacture: United States

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