Rare First Model S&W Hand Ejector M1896 in .32 S&W Long

A rare First Model S&W Model 1896 Hand Ejector in .32 S&W Long. This was one of Smith and Wesson’s earliest Hand Ejector swing-out cylinder revolvers. With this short-lived design, the cylinder is opened by pulling forward on the knurled ejector rod nub.  Has a 4″ barrel, and original factory black gutta percha grips. The original factory square-butt two-screw target grips have faded to a pleasant chocolate brown and have no chips or cracks.  Has the original patent markings stacked on the cylinder:

SMITH
&
WESSON
SPRINGFIELD
MASS.
U.S.A.
PATENTED
JULY 1.84
APRIL 9.89
MARCH 27.94
MAY 29.94
MAY 21.95
JULY 16.95

Serial # 279X. (Circa 1897.) This is an early-production example with the desirable three-screw sideplate.  Mechanically, this revolver works quite well in both single-action and double-action modes, with a tight lock-up. The ejector works perfectly. The bore is excellent. About 50% original blued finish. The hammer and trigger still show traces of color casehardening. (See photos, for details. ) Also included with this revolver is a period russet brown leather shoulder holster with a replacement canvas strap, that fits it well. (#IPLH-946)