Smith & Wesson Model 696 No Dash .44 Special 3-Inch 5-Shot L-Frame Stainless DA/SA Revolver (1997–1998)
This Model 696 No Dash is the pre-lock L-frame revolver that introduced .44 Special to the platform, produced in the late 1990s. Built in stainless steel with a 3-inch barrel and adjustable sights, it combines a compact 5-shot cylinder with robust L-frame construction. Inside the yoke/crane cut, the frame shows serial “CBW9732” and the yoke shows assembly number “695”; factory markings confirm its Springfield, Massachusetts origin. (On S&W revolvers, the model marking is typically roll-stamped as “MOD. 696” on the frame in this area, though it is not visible in the provided images.)
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver presents in great shape overall. Minor, superficial scratches and small blemishes are present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What's Included
- Smith & Wesson Model 696 No Dash .44 Special revolver
The Model 696 was the first L-frame revolver chambered in .44 Special, and this no-dash, pre-lock example dates to 1997–1998. It uses a 5-round cylinder and a 3-inch barrel, making it a distinctive, limited-era configuration within the S&W lineup.
Construction is all stainless steel, including the frame, cylinder, and 3-inch barrel with a full underlug. The barrel rib has longitudinal serrations, while the topstrap is smooth. Unloaded weight is approximately 35–36 oz, providing solid, durable build quality.
Sights are adjustable iron sights, with a pinned red-ramp front featuring a red/orange insert and a fully adjustable rear. Controls include a standard checkered cylinder latch and a knurled ejector-rod tip.
The action is double-action/single-action with an exposed, checkered-spur hammer. The hammer and smooth-face trigger are case-colored. The black rubber monogrip has finger grooves and covers the backstrap for a secure in-hand feel.
Factory markings include the S&W logo with "TRADE MARK REG. U.S. PAT. OFF.", "MADE IN U.S.A. MARCAS REGISTRADAS SMITH & WESSON SPRINGFIELD, MASS.", "SMITH & WESSON" on the barrel left, and ".44 S&W SPECIAL" on the barrel right.
Inside the yoke/crane cut, the frame shows serial “CBW9732,” and the yoke bears assembly number “695.” (S&W typically roll-stamps the model as “MOD. 696” on the frame in this location, though that specific stamp is not visible in the provided images.) The revolver was made in the USA during the late 1990s.