Wildey Cheshire Survivor Model .45 Win Mag 8″ WOLFGANG1 Pistol 1988
SOLD FOR: $5676
LSB#: 230115CZ023
Make: Wildey
Model: Survivor Model
Serial Number: WOLFGANG1
Year of Manufacture: 1988
Caliber: .45 Win Mag
Action Type: Double Action, Single Action / (DA/SA), Semi-Automatic, Gas Operated, Removable Magazine Fed Pistol with Magazine Disconnect Safety.
Markings: The underside of the barrel is marked “45 WIN. MAG.” The left side of the frame is marked “WOLFGANG1”, the right side of the slide is marked “WILDEY FIREARMS COMPANY, INC. / CHESHIRE, CONNECTICUT USA”
Barrel Length: 8? with Ventilated Full Length Rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a 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 receiver. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched black leaf on a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation; the base is slotted onto the top of the receiver, is pinned to the top and secured with a flat head screw at the rear.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood panels. There are a couple of tiny marks from normal use and handling towards the bottoms. The checkering is strong. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent 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 strong. There is no erosion in the bore but there are some small spots of stubborn fouling. In my opinion, this bore is a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are some visible draglines and light handling marks. There are some scuffs and minor hairline scratches. Some of the marks have caused smooth spots. There are a few light marks on the frame behind the hammer from standard use. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition (SEE MECHANICS).
Mechanics: The hammer sometimes follows the slide forwards when the slide is cycled. When on safe and the trigger is pulled, the safety moves down and the hammer falls. This pistol is gas operated with a magazine disconnect safety, decock safety, and was designed to accept interchangeable barrels (not included). 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 box wtih non-matching faded serial number, original invoice from Wildey, spare firing pin, two 7-round magazines, DVD from a previous owner, paperwork including manuals, 1991 Autoloading Pistols buyers guide, and notes from a previous owner.
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 Fine condition with scattered light marks in its stainless steel finish. This one was originally owned by one Mr. John E. Franck III who helped the Wildey company financially during times of hardship. The company made him his own pistol with a special serial number “WOLFGANG1” and this pistol even comes with a 1988 invoice from Wildey to Mr. Franck listing this pistol by serial number. 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, this one with its interesting history 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!
Some are hot, some are not, but thankfully most can be shot!
-Red
