TDE Trade Deed Estates Auto Mag 160 .357 AMP 10.5″ Semi-Auto Pistol C&R
SOLD FOR: $2276.01
LSB#: 210629JY02
Make: TDE, Trade Deed Estates
Model: Auto Mag 160
Serial Number: AZ-33
Year of Manufacture: 1971-1982
Caliber: .357 AMP, Auto Mag Pistol
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Automatic with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the upper receiver is marked with the “TDE” logo and “AUTO MAG / .357 AMP MODEL 160 / EL MONTE, CALIF. / PATENTED” while the right side is marked “MADE IN USA”. The butt is marked “AZ-33”.
Barrel Length: 10 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade on a ramped base integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation and is pinned to the upper receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are black checkered plastic. There are no major defects and the checkering is sharp. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is some dried oil on the top of the upper receiver/barrel extension. There are a couple of little scrapes on the bottom of the barrel at the front. There are a few little draglines, light scuffs, and some minor hairline scratches, mostly scattered over the barrel. There is standard operational wear. The allen heads have strong sockets. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun as with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A pair of 7-round magazines is included. The mags have some scattered scuffs and operational wear. One magazine has a bent floorplate. The magazines rate in about Very Good and Fine condition.
Our Assessment: In 1971, Harry Sanford and his Auto Mag Corporation answered the prayers of many firearms owners by offering magnum revolver performance in a semi-automatic pistol. Using a short-recoil operation with a rotary bolt similar to the design of the M16/AR15 rifle, the Auto Mag made an immediate impression on the firearms world. Constructed of stainless steel and clocking in at over 3.5 pounds, the original .44 chambering pushed a .429 bullet at over 1600fps. In 1970, Auto Mag Corporation opened a factory in Pasadena, California. The first pistol shipped on August 8, 1971 and the factory declared bankruptcy on May 3, 1972, making fewer than 3,000 pistols. The company opened and closed several times from 1973 through 1982 under several different names: TDE (Trade Deed Estates), OMC, Thomas Oil Company, High Standard, and AMT (Arcadia Machine & Tool). This particular pistol is from the TDE days and it still looks terrific. This is a rare opportunity to own such an iconic pistol that is still featured in films and television shows. Don’t let this one pass you by. Please see our photos and good luck!