Russian 3rd Model

The Smith & Wesson Russian 3rd Model, introduced in 1874, represented the final and most refined evolution of the massive contracts between the American manufacturer and the Russian Empire. This model was developed to address specific ergonomic and mechanical feedback from Russian military officials who sought a more balanced and reliable sidearm than the previous "Old Model" and "Transitional" variants. Production for this definitive version lasted from 1874 until 1878, with an impressive total of approximately 60,638 units manufactured for the Russian government, alongside several thousand more produced for the civilian market and other international contracts.

Mechanically, the 3rd Model Russian is a single-action, six-shot, top-break revolver chambered in the accurate .44 Russian caliber. It is easily distinguished from other Model 3 variants by its 6.5-inch barrel—shorter than the earlier 8-inch versions—and an integrated "hump" on the backstrap that prevents the grip from shifting in the hand during recoil. Additionally, it features a prominent finger spur on the trigger guard, designed to provide the shooter with a more stable, two-handed-like grip. 

Its military service was legendary, serving as the primary sidearm of the Imperial Russian Army during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878, where its rapid reloading capabilities proved tactically superior to the solid-frame revolvers used by Ottoman forces.

As for all Smith & Wesson Model 3 variants, the primary advantage of this model was the simultaneous extraction system, which allowed for unparalleled speed when clearing spent brass. In civil contexts, the "Russian" became a favorite of target shooters across the globe: users specifically appreciated the .44 Russian cartridge, which was arguably the most accurate centerfire handgun round of its time.