Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this double-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change
Serial: 203122
Date of Manufacture: 1909-1915
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 6" Pinned
Optics/Sights: Pinned Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut with S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change, is a pivotal revolver in the evolution of the company’s legendary K-frame line. Manufactured between 1909 and 1915, this variation represents one of the transitional stages that would eventually lead to the modern Model 10, the most produced revolver in history. Chambered in .38 Special, it was built on the square-butt K-frame and offered in multiple barrel lengths, typically ranging from 4 to 6.5 inches. The revolver retained the basic design characteristics of earlier M&P models, including fixed sights and a six-round swing-out cylinder, but incorporated subtle refinements to improve strength and durability. One of the most notable updates in the 3rd Change was the adoption of a heat-treated cylinder beginning around serial number 316,648, which greatly enhanced its ability to handle the higher pressures of the .38 Special cartridge. This innovation was crucial, as it reflected Smith & Wesson’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of both law enforcement and civilian shooters during the early 20th century. From a collector’s standpoint, the 1905, 3rd Change, holds considerable historical significance, as it embodies the era in which the .38 Special was cementing itself as the dominant service cartridge in America. These revolvers were widely issued to police departments and also sold commercially, making them a cornerstone of everyday defense and duty carry in the pre-World War I period. The deep, high-polish bluing, crisp case-hardening on hammers and triggers, and walnut grips speak to Smith & Wesson’s craftsmanship during this era, when revolvers were not only utilitarian but also objects of mechanical artistry. Today, surviving examples in high condition or with factory documentation are prized by collectors, as they represent both a practical firearm of its time and a stepping stone in the long lineage of the Military & Police revolver. The Model of 1905, 3rd Change, remains a tangible link to the formative years of modern law enforcement sidearms and an enduring testament to the design excellence of early 20th-century Smith & Wesson.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Model: .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change
Serial: 203122
Date of Manufacture: 1909-1915
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 6" Pinned
Optics/Sights: Pinned Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut with S&W Medallions
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police Model of 1905, 3rd Change, is a pivotal revolver in the evolution of the company’s legendary K-frame line. Manufactured between 1909 and 1915, this variation represents one of the transitional stages that would eventually lead to the modern Model 10, the most produced revolver in history. Chambered in .38 Special, it was built on the square-butt K-frame and offered in multiple barrel lengths, typically ranging from 4 to 6.5 inches. The revolver retained the basic design characteristics of earlier M&P models, including fixed sights and a six-round swing-out cylinder, but incorporated subtle refinements to improve strength and durability. One of the most notable updates in the 3rd Change was the adoption of a heat-treated cylinder beginning around serial number 316,648, which greatly enhanced its ability to handle the higher pressures of the .38 Special cartridge. This innovation was crucial, as it reflected Smith & Wesson’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of both law enforcement and civilian shooters during the early 20th century. From a collector’s standpoint, the 1905, 3rd Change, holds considerable historical significance, as it embodies the era in which the .38 Special was cementing itself as the dominant service cartridge in America. These revolvers were widely issued to police departments and also sold commercially, making them a cornerstone of everyday defense and duty carry in the pre-World War I period. The deep, high-polish bluing, crisp case-hardening on hammers and triggers, and walnut grips speak to Smith & Wesson’s craftsmanship during this era, when revolvers were not only utilitarian but also objects of mechanical artistry. Today, surviving examples in high condition or with factory documentation are prized by collectors, as they represent both a practical firearm of its time and a stepping stone in the long lineage of the Military & Police revolver. The Model of 1905, 3rd Change, remains a tangible link to the formative years of modern law enforcement sidearms and an enduring testament to the design excellence of early 20th-century Smith & Wesson.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
