Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change, 4" Blued Revolver – Late 1910s Production
This full-size, five-screw K-frame revolver is a late-1910s example of the 3rd Change variant of Smith & Wesson’s .38 Military & Police Model of 1905. Built on a carbon-steel frame with a pinned, tapered 4" barrel, it represents the pre-Model 10 lineage that equipped law-enforcement agencies worldwide. Collectors value these early, non-heat-treated cylinder guns for their place in the evolution of the iconic M&P line.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean with some residue or smudges; slight corrosion present.
Bore Fouling: Mild Fouling – Light buildup of fouling or dirt.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling – Worn rifling with slight loss of definition.
Significant finish loss is visible on the barrel, and both the barrel and cylinder display scattered pitting. The revolver remains mechanically functional.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change revolver
Produced between 1909 and 1915, serial number range 188XXX places this revolver firmly in the 3rd Change production run. Its five-screw frame and round-butt grip profile showcase the classic K-frame layout that would later become the Model 10 standard.
The 4" pinned, tapered carbon-steel barrel is equipped with a half-moon front blade and fixed square-notch rear sight, delivering the straightforward sight picture favored by period service revolvers.
Original checkered walnut grips with inset S&W medallions remain installed, matching the era-correct smooth, narrow trigger and standard service hammer.
Chambered in .38 Special, the six-shot, non-heat-treated cylinder reflects early metallurgy practices before S&W transitioned to improved cylinders in later changes.