Dan Wesson Arms Monson Model 44 .44 Magnum 8″ Double Action Revolver

SOLD FOR: $1136.99

LSB#: 210413DR02

Make: Dan Wesson Arms

Model: 44

Serial Number: 009684

Year of Manufacture: Early 1980s (https://www.danwessonforum.com/wp-content/files/DanWessonSerialNumbers.pdf)

Caliber: .44 Special or .44 Magnum

Action Type: Single or Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Markings: The right side of the barrel shroud is marked “DAN WESSON ARMS / 44 MAGNUM CTG.”. The right side of the frame is marked “DAN WESSON ARMS / MONSON, MASS. U.S.A. / 009684”.

Barrel Length: 8” Vent Rib with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with a red insert and is pinned to the rib. The rear sight is a square notch target sight with a white outline and is pinned to a rise in the top strap.

 Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is smooth wood with Dan Wesson “DW” medallions. There are a few little compressions and marks into the finish. The most noticeable compressions are on the right and along the backstrap. There are a few little tiny dings and marks into the finish, most noticeable on the bottom edges. There are no chips or cracks. The grip rates in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion. The barrel shroud has power porting but the barrel does not have ports.

Overall Condition: This handgun set retains about 97% of its metal finish. The frame has become a mottled plum hue. There are some mottled oil marks on the cylinder. There are a couple little marks into the finish, some of the most noticeable are on the barrel shroud towards the front. There are a few freckles of light frost on the cylinder. The cylinder has a light turn line that has thinned the finish. The markings are clear. The pinheads are unmarred and the screw sockets are unmarred. Overall, the revolver is in about Fine Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrel shroud has power ports but the barrel is not ported. The double-action pull is smooth and the single action is light and crisp. The cylinder has faint rotational play on all six chambers. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a barrel shroud wrench and manual.

Our Assessment: This is a nice Dan Wesson 44, it has an adjustable rear sight, blued finish, a one-piece wood grip, and an 8” barrel. Not since the original open-top percussion revolvers from Colt was it so easy for the user to change the barrel on a revolver. This design allows the shooter to change barrels and grips very quickly with the included wrench so you can suit one frame to just about any shooting you’d like. Though not as popular as some other manufacturers, Dan Wesson earned a reputation, which continues to this day, of fine quality craftsmanship and innovative design. This one has light wear from use and handling and is in Fine condition, with nice trigger pulls in both single and double action it should be a fun shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!