^Lot 1380 EXCEEDINGLY SCARCE SOVIET "1926" DATE 1895 NAGANT

NKVD OFFICERS MODEL DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVER. Cal. 7.62x38mmR. S# 8643. Bbl. 3 3/8". 1 of only approx. 25,000 Model 1895 Nagant NKVD Officer's Model (also referred to as the "Commanding Officer's Model") revolvers mfg. by Tula between 1924-1932. These revolvers were produced with concealability in mind, particularly with civilian clothing, being made with a shorter bbl. and grip frame than the standard Model 1895 Nagant revolver for issue to NKVD agents and customs officers. This example is marked "C.C.C.P." above Cyrillic characters (denoting the arsenal) and the year of mfg. "1926" on the left side of the frame. Frame and various small parts exhibit the Tula hammer proof mark. Frame is fitted with 2-piece checkered wood grips, with a checkered wood panel also present on the back strap. Pommel features a lanyard stud and "D" ring. Standard M1895 pattern dovetailed blade front sight and frame notched rear sight on top strap. All serialized parts are matching via "8643" and include the frame, sideplate (interior), and cyl. CONDITION: metal components have been cleaned at one time, retaining traces of original bluing in protected areas (and internally), with the balance having faded to a gray patina and exhibiting light surface level pitting overall. Trigger, hammer, loading gate spring, and loading gate retain traces of their original nitro bluing in exposed areas, with strong nitre bluing remaining in protected internal areas. Bore exhibits a consistent scattering of spots and patches of moderate pitting, while retaining good, albeit worn rifling throughout. Proper manual mechanics. Grips show scattered marks and impressions from handling and storage, with a few patches and areas of moderate smoothing present overall. Approx. 2,000,000 Model 1895 Nagant revolvers were produced between 1895-1945, with this NKVD Officers Model variant totaling only approx. 1.25% of the M1895's overall production. A seldom presented opportunity for one to acquire an M1895 variation that is virtually unheard of in the United States. PROVENANCE: From the Lifetime Collection of Malcolm Zickler, Ret. USAF Lt. Col. (26-532/MLW). CURIO. $1,500-2,500.