Smith & Wesson "N" to the largest .44 Magnum type frame. In 2003, the even larger "X" frame was introduced for the .500 S&W Magnum. Most Smith & Wesson revolvers have been equipped with an internal locking mechanism since the acquisition by Saf-T-Hammer. The mechanism is relatively unobtrusive, is activated with a special key, and renders the firearm inoperable. While the lock can simply be left disengaged, most gun enthusiasts prefer "pre-lock" guns. In 1953 the U.S. Army was looking for a pistol to replace the Colt 1911A1. To obtain a bid from the U.S. Government, Smith & Wesson began working on a
Smith & Wesson Model 73 more than 20 of these left in private ownership. Smith & Wesson Model 73 The S&W Model 73 was a .38 Special caliber revolver manufactured by Smith & Wesson. The Model 73 was made in only 5000 units in 1973. It was made in C-frame, the only model that featured this frame. It was a J-frame modified to take a 6-shot K-frame cylinder. It was S&W answer to the Colt Detective Special. The revolver was made with an off-set cylinder stop which made them difficult to manufacture and test. As a result, most of these revolvers were destroyed for safety