Smith & Wesson S&W 1955 .45 Target Model Pre 25 .45 ACP 6.5″ Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1200
LSB#: 2407016ML41
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: The 1955 .45 Target Heavy Barrel, Pre-Model 25
Serial Number: S159662
Year of Manufacture: 1956-1957
Caliber: .45 ACP & .45 Auto Rim
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action DA/SA Swing-Out, Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “45 CAL. MODEL 1955”. The yoke cut is marked “K” above inspection marks, the yoke and sides of the grip frame also have inspection marks. The side plate has S&W’s monogram logo, the right side of the frame has the four-line Marcas Registradas. The butt is marked “S159662”. The ejector rod cutout is also marked “S159662”. The front face of the ejector is marked “159662”.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade on an elevated base, it has been modified and undercut by a previous owner. The rear sight is an S&W micrometer click square notch rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation. The rib is serrated to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood target stocks with S&W medallions, smooth diamonds, and a football cut. The backstrap is proud to the wood. There is a gap along the butt and front strap. The top peak of the right panel sticks up slightly above the frame. The surfaces have light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
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 90% of its metal finish. There is some finish loss on the barrel at the muzzle. There are a few little nicks scattered over the barrel. There is some finish loss in front of the cylinder stop bolster. The back of the frame has some finish loss and scratches that have been touched up with cold blue. There are some little scuffs and spots of thinning and frost on the trigger guard and bottom of the frame. The cylinder has some light marks and a turn line. The sideplate is a lighter hue of blue than the rest of the revolver. The screws are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The action functions correctly but sometimes the trigger does not fully reset, it likely just needs a good cleaning. The cylinder locks up with minor play. 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: None.
Our Assessment: This is Smith & Wesson’s model 1955 Target, a heavy barrel target revolver chambered in .45 ACP with a 6 1/2″ barrel, adjustable sights, and target stocks. In 1957, this model was renamed the Model 25. The trigger seems to need a good cleaning but this will be a great shooter once that is taken care of. It is in Very Good condition with about 90% of its metal finish with some scattered wear, a bright bore, and a good cylinder lockup. This will make a great target revolver that you won’t mind getting a mark or two on and if you have some .45 ACP laying around this would be a great revolver to do some shooting with. Please see our pictures and good luck!