Description
Smith & Wesson No. 3 Hard Rubber Grips
These Smith & Wesson No. 3 hard rubber grips are original-period black hard rubber revolver stocks manufactured between approximately 1878 and 1912. They feature molded Smith & Wesson monograms, finely checkered panels, and the distinctive uncheckered diamond surrounding the grip-screw escutcheons. These are correct period-style grips for the antique Smith & Wesson No. 3 top-break revolver.
Smith & Wesson No. 3 Black Hard Rubber Grips
These antique stocks represent the classic black hard rubber grip configuration used on Smith & Wesson No. 3 revolvers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their decorative molded pattern, prominent S&W monograms, and original-period construction make them desirable accessories for collectors of antique American revolvers.
Construction / Configuration / Pattern
The grips are constructed from black hard rubber, commonly referred to as vulcanite, with molded checkering and decorative borders. Each panel features a raised circular Smith & Wesson monogram near the upper portion, with an uncheckered diamond surrounding the central grip-screw opening.
The exterior displays the characteristic flowing checkering pattern and smooth decorative borders associated with early Smith & Wesson hard rubber stocks. A faint molded marking is visible near the lower edge of one panel.
The interiors feature recessed cavities and molded contours designed to accommodate the No. 3 revolver grip frame. The original grip screw is not included.
Historical Context / Pattern Development
The Smith & Wesson No. 3 was among the most important American revolver designs of the late 19th century. Its top-break action and automatic cartridge extraction system represented significant advances in revolver development, and the No. 3 became widely associated with military, law enforcement, and commercial use.
During the 1878–1912 period, Smith & Wesson manufactured hard rubber stocks featuring the company’s distinctive molded monogram and checkering pattern. Hard rubber provided a durable alternative to traditional wooden stocks while allowing decorative details to be molded directly into the material.
Original-period No. 3 hard rubber grips remain desirable to collectors restoring or completing antique Smith & Wesson top-break revolvers, particularly when both panels retain their original molded details.
Condition
Good antique condition overall. The black hard rubber retains its molded checkering, decorative borders, and prominent S&W monograms. There is visible age-related surface wear, handling marks, light scratches, and some smoothing to portions of the checkering.
The interiors show normal installation wear, surface discoloration, and accumulated age-related residue. Both panels remain intact with no obvious major cracks or missing sections. The grip screw is not included.
Listing Disclaimer
Buyer is responsible for verifying fit with their specific Smith & Wesson No. 3 revolver. These are antique hard rubber stocks dating to the approximate 1878–1912 production period.
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