August 4, 2026 Online Only Firearms
Lot #1008:
(A) SCARCE LUDWIG LOEWE RUSSIAN CONTRACT NO. 3 .44 RUSSIAN SINGLE ACTION REVOLVER.
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/4/2026
This large number 3 frame in .44 Russian was made in Germany by the Ludwig Loewe company for the Russian Government and is a faithful copy of the Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian. An example of the Cyrillic barrel address is found on page 110 in the Supica Smith & Wesson book. The serial number 17619 is found on the barrel rib, back of cylinder and butt. Left side of frame is stamped with the OOP inspector and origin date 1874 but were not built or shipped to Russian until 1876. Standard features include the two piece smooth walnut grips, lanyard ring, trigger guard sash hook, half moon front sight and blue finish. The large top strap retaining screw is missing. These revolvers saw very heavy use during the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878) and are seldom seen today and usually in very rough condition. CONDITION: Good. Basically no original finish except in protected areas like flutes and rib base and is now a freckled patina. All legends are still sharp. Grips are solid. Right side plate needs some better fitting. Needs some mechanical attention. Bore is sharp with nominal residue.