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 3 European reproduction Model 3 revolvers have changes made to their lockwork to meet import regulations. A Uberti produced reproduction was also marketed as the Beretta Laramie. Clint Eastwood's 1992 film "Unforgiven" features a character called the "Schofield Kid" (Jaimz Woolvett), named after the Model 3, his weapon of choice. In the 2007 film "", Charlie Prince (Ben Foster) carries two Smith & Wesson Schofield Model 3 revolvers. Smith & Wesson Model 3 The Smith & Wesson Model 3 was a single-action, cartridge-firing, bottom-break revolver produced by Smith & Wesson from circa 1870 to 1915, and was recently again offered as