Wildey Firearms Company Inc. Cheshire Wildey Auto Pistol .45 Win Mag 8″
SOLD FOR: $2576
LSB#: 210329GS05
Make: Wildey Firearms Company Inc.
Model: Wildey Auto Pistol
Serial Number: 45-1560
Year of Manufacture: 1980-1982
Caliber: .45 Winchester Magnum
Action Type: Double Action, Single Action / (DA/SA), Semi-Automatic, Gas Operated, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol with Magazine Disconnect Safety.
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “45-1590”, the right side of the slide is marked “WILDEY FIREARMS COMPANY, INC. / CHESHIRE, CONNECTICUT U.S.A.”.
Barrel Length: 8” with Ventilated Full Length Rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a long ramped blade integral to a rise in the full length ventilated rib; the rib is secured to the pistol with one set screw into the barrel, the other into the frame. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, the base is pinned to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood panels. There are a few little marks on the bottom edges and on the smooth borders. The checkering is strong. The grips rate in about Fine Plus overall condition.
Type of Finish: Polished Stainless Steel with Matte Gray Alloy Ventilated Barrel Rib.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is a bulge at the midsection.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. There are scattered scuffs and rubs that have caused smooth spots, most noticeable on the barrel. There is a little line of yellow paint on the bottom of the barrel. There is standard operational wear. There are a few little nicks and light dings. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This pistol is gas operated with a magazine disconnect safety and decock safety. 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 7-round magazine with some light wear from standard use, in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: Widley has been in and out of business a few times since their creation, but the pistols were always brought back by popular demand. Well constructed with an ingenious gas operation system that helps tame powerful cartridges such as .45 Winchester Magnum. The gas system is housed around the barrel and can be adjusted by turning a knurled collar, adjusting how far the slide must travel to the rear before the pressure is released from the piston. This allows the user to tune the gas system to the load being used, optimizing operation and recoil. This example is from the early years of production under the original company in Cheshire, Connecticut, and is in Very Good condition with scattered light marks in its stainless steel finish. The Wildey pistols have always had a dedicated following and the pistol was featured prominently in use by Charles Bronson in “Death Wish 3”. For a dedicated Wildey collector, a Cheshire gun would make a prized addition to a collection, but these pistols are loved by recoil junkies and handgun hunters alike. This example would make a fine addition to any collection. Please see our photographs and good luck!