Description from HiBid
SMITH & WESSON “TRIPLE LOCK” .44 SPECIAL REVOLVER
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model – “Triple Lock” / New Century
Caliber: .44 Special
Action: Double / Single Action Revolver
Frame: Large N-Frame
Barrel Length: 6.5"
Finish: Original finish with honest age wear
Offered is a Smith & Wesson .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model revolver, widely known among collectors as the legendary “Triple Lock.” Chambered in .44 Special, this revolver represents one of the finest and most mechanically sophisticated revolver designs ever produced by Smith & Wesson.
The name “Triple Lock” comes from the revolver’s unique third locking lug located in the crane, which locks the cylinder at three separate points for exceptional strength and alignment. This additional lock was expensive to manufacture and was later eliminated from production, making original Triple Locks particularly sought after by collectors today.
The barrel is correctly marked:
“S&W .44 SPECIAL CTG.”
As expected for revolvers of this era, no model number is present, since Smith & Wesson did not begin stamping model numbers until 1957.
Serial number 16260 places this revolver in very early production, dating to approximately 1910–1911, during the early years of Triple Lock manufacture.
This revolver retains the correct and desirable 6.5-inch barrel, one of the most historically correct configurations encountered on these early New Century revolvers.
Importantly for collectors, this revolver appears to remain in original configuration, with no evidence of barrel shortening, front sight replacement, or other alterations commonly encountered on early revolvers of this type. The barrel length, sight configuration, and overall profile appear correct and consistent with factory production.
Condition
This revolver is in fair cosmetic condition but remains very operational.
The metal surfaces show honest finish wear and natural patina consistent with a revolver over 110 years old, giving the gun the appearance of a well-preserved working antique rather than a refinished example.
The revolver appears mechanically functional, with a working action and solid lockup. As with all antique firearms, inspection by a qualified gunsmith is recommended prior to firing.
Despite cosmetic wear, Triple Locks in any functional condition remain highly collectible due to their short production run (1908–1915) and legendary reputation among revolver enthusiasts.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model (“Triple Lock” / New Century)
Caliber: .44 Special
Action: Double / Single Action
Frame: Large N-Frame
Barrel Length: 6.5"
Finish: Original finish with age-appropriate wear
Year Manufactured: Circa 1910–1911
Condition Summary
Metal: Honest wear with natural age patina
Grips: Age-consistent condition
Bore: Appears serviceable
Mechanical: Operational
Overall: Fair cosmetic condition with solid mechanical function
Collectability
• Legendary Smith & Wesson “Triple Lock” revolver
• Early production serial number
• Desirable 6.5" barrel configuration
• Chambered in .44 Special
• Produced only 1908–1915
• Highly respected among advanced S&W collectors
Collectability: Very High
Estimated Auction Hammer Range
$1,900 – $2,500
Serial Number: 16260
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