POTD: S&W New Model No. 3 Pair – A Rich Man’s Shooting Toys
Sam.S 04.03.25
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This matching pair of Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 revolvers tells the story of America’s Gilded Age, when the super-wealthy indulged in elaborate sporting equipment. These weren’t just guns – they were status symbols for a man who could afford the finest of everything. Walton Ferguson Jr. wasn’t your average shooter. His father had been a partner in H.C. Frick Coke Company before it merged into U.S. Steel in a deal brokered by J.P. Morgan himself. This family connection gave young Walton plenty of money to pursue his various passions. While Ferguson is better known in history as president of the Westminster Kennel Club and a prominent breeder of English Springer Spaniels, these revolvers suggest target shooting was another of his recreational pursuits. He was also an avid yachtsman who competed for the “Kineo Cup” at Moosehead Lake in 1907 and belonged to the exclusive Jekyll Island Club – basically a playground for America’s industrial elite. These S&Ws aren’t technically from the Target model serial range, but they were clearly special-ordered with competitive shooting in mind. Both feature target-style adjustable rear sights paired with different front sights – one with an all-steel beaded blade, the other with a white beaded blade. The matching pearl grips with S&W medallions add a touch of luxury.
“Pair of Special Ordered Smith & Wesson New Model No. 3 Revolvers.” Rock Island Auction Company, https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4094/137/pair-of-special-ordered-smith-wesson-new-model-no-3-revolvers. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.
