Shooting the Smith & Wesson Model 24-3 in .44 Special

The Smith & Wesson Model 24-3

• 🎯 The video features the Smith & Wesson Model 24-3, chambered in the classic .44 Special cartridge.
• 💡 This firearm is highlighted as a wonderful and enjoyable gun to shoot, particularly for experienced shooters who appreciate the .44 Special.

.44 Special Cartridge History

• 📜 The .44 Special cartridge originated from the .44 Russian round, lengthened slightly and optimized for smokeless powder, first appearing around 1908.
• 🛠️ Early iterations included the "Triple Lock" (First Model Hand Ejector) and later models that evolved through various design changes, including the addition and removal of the ejector rod shroud.
• 💥 The cartridge's development saw a significant shift in the 1950s with the advent of the .44 Magnum, which could also fire .44 Special rounds, impacting the .44 Special's market share.

Model 24 Evolution and Features

• 🌟 The Model 24, specifically the .44 Special N-frame, was produced in various forms, including the "Model of 1950 Target" and military variants.
• 📅 Production of the original N-frame .44 Special ceased in 1966, but Smith & Wesson reintroduced it in 1983 with the Model 24-3, the firearm featured in this video.
• ⚖️ The Model 24-3 is noted for its contoured barrel, lighter weight compared to Magnum counterparts, and excellent balance, making it a preferred shooter for the presenter over the Model 29.

Shooting Experience and Accuracy

• 💥 The .44 Special is described as a pleasant cartridge to shoot with manageable recoil, contributing to its reputation for accuracy.
• ✅ The presenter emphasizes the fun and enjoyable shooting experience, encouraging viewers to become "cult members" of the .44 Special.
• 🔒 Unlike .44 Magnum revolvers, the Model 24-3 is chambered exclusively for .44 Special and cannot chamber Magnum rounds.

Collectibility and Modern Variants

• 💎 The Model 24-3, produced in the 1980s, is considered desirable and not easily found, with limited production runs.
• 🌟 A stainless steel variant, the Model 624, was also produced in the mid-80s.
• 🧐 While later "classic" runs of the Model 24 exist, they are considered less desirable by some due to features like frame-mounted firing pins and key locks.