Identifying a S&W Russian Model 3

[Marshal Halloway]

Howdy folks!

Here is something I need some help with. One visitor to Cas City sent me this email today.
If you can provide any info, he will be grateful.

I am trying to research a S&W Russian Model 3.
The closest I've come to identifying through the internet is that it may be a New model 3.

It has a 6 1/2" barrel with an oil screw on top of the barrel in front of the latch to break the action.  The latch is on the barrel.

The trigger guard is black as is the trigger and latch. It doesn't have the spurred trigger guard, but has a spurring of sorts just above the top of the handle.  I believe this is called a 'knuckle.'

The American models curve smoothly in-line with the handle. The handle is a round butt, not square, and is Walnut.   It has 1-screw forward of the barrel break latch knob.  The front sight is a long half-moon, and the rear sight is fixed and part of the latch knob.  The trigger is curved upward rather than level or downward.  It has a nickel finish with no pits in the barrel.

I can't find any caliber markings, so I don't know if this is a 44 or a 44-100.  It is a center fire.

The markings on the barrel are crisp and clean.  They read;  (cross like-symbol) Smith & Wesson Springfield Mass. USA. Pat. July 10.60Jan.17.Feb.17.July 11.65Aug. 24 69 Russian Model (symbol).
On the inside of the cylinder is stamped 5415 as well as on the underneath of the latch that breaks the action.  Stamped under the handle on the frame is 4454(2).  These are the only markings.
 
I know the original owner.  This has been passed down through one family since originally owned.  The origin of this family was a Wyoming cattle rancher who migrated from Ireland in the 1800's. 

Can you help me with more information on this S&W?  Possible with other contacts?  I live in Minnesota and would like to have it appraised or placed with a historical collector.
 
The original holster and cartridge belt is included.

Thank you.

Sincerely, M.

[Scattered Thumbs]

It has a 6 1/2" barrel with an oil screw on top of the barrel in front of the latch to break the action.  The latch is on the barrel.
Sincerely, M.[/size]

That screw sort of rules it out of being a New model #3. It could be a third model Russian without the triggerguard spur.

What's the underbarrel look like? Also, is there a disengaging latch on the front underside of the frame?

[Four-Eyed Buck]

Hey Joss, did Jim ever resign up over on TFS? I really liked reading his posts in the BOSS forum.......Buck

[plainolddave]

Sounds to me like an Old Model Russian. A buddy of mine had one years ago that had had the finger rest removed at some point. As you might tell from my avatar, I am partial to Smiths....

[Scattered Thumbs]

BTT