Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! This bizarre stag handle S&W Model 25-3 represents an unusual transformation – an American commemorative revolver reimagined as a European hunting weapon through elaborate customization and the addition of a detachable stock. Originally manufactured in 1977 as part of Smith & Wesson’s 125th anniversary celebration, this revolver began life as a special edition .45 Long Colt – already a premium gun marking a significant company milestone. But its journey was just beginning. The revolver made its way to Germany, where it received an extensive makeover from skilled German engravers. The German oak leaf and acorn motif covers nearly the entire surface – traditionally associated with German hunting culture and marksmanship. The moose scene engraved on the frame completes the hunting theme.
What truly transforms this revolver is the elaborately carved detachable shoulder stock. Featuring detailed relief carvings of moose in a forest setting and traditional fish scale checkering, the stock converts this handgun into what U.S. law classifies as a short-barreled rifle – hence its NFA status requiring special registration. The concept of stocked revolvers has deep roots in European hunting traditions. In Germany’s heavily wooded hunting grounds, these combination weapons offered the quick handling of a revolver with improved accuracy for taking game at moderate distances. While American hunters rarely embraced stocked revolvers, they remained popular in parts of Europe well into the 20th century.
“Smith & Wesson Model 25-3 Class III/NFA Short Barreled Rifle.” Rock Island Auction Company, https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4094/1557/smith-wesson-model-253-class-iiinfa-short-barreled-rifle. Accessed 5 May 2025.
Writer | TheFirearmBlog
Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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