John Taffin’s Smith & Wesson S&W Model 57-1 .41 Magnum DA/SA Revolver

SOLD FOR: $1,950.00

LSB#: LSB260521SS057

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 57-1

Serial Number: AUW7655

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1986-1988 / Modern  (Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson)

Caliber: .41 Magnum

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with 6-Shot Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder

Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “41 MAGNUM” and is chalked for visibility. The right side plate is marked with the S&W monogram logo and the right of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas address. The crane cut is marked “AUW7655” / “MOD. 57-1”. The grip butt is marked “AUW7655”.

Barrel Length: 8 3/8″, Full-rib

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with red insert integral to a raised rise in the rib. The rear sight is a flat top rectangular notch screwed to the top strap with elevation and windage micro click adjustment and white outline of the notch. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut target-style grips with thumb rests. There are scattered handling scratches, compression nicks, and scuffs. There are no chips or cracks.  Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Colored Hammer and Trigger

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. There is fouling present. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There is finish wear at the muzzle. There are scattered handling scratches and a few minor compression dings. There is a brown tone along the barrel rib. There are carbon rings on the cylinder face and turn line around the exterior. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lockup is tight with minor play at each chamber. The double-action trigger is smooth and the single-action trigger is crisp. 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: John Taffin Collection Certificate of Authenticity

Our Assessment:  The Smith & Wesson Model 57 was introduced in the 1960s as the company’s premium N-frame revolver chambered for the then-new .41 Magnum cartridge. Positioned between the .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum in power, the .41 Magnum was developed with both law-enforcement and sporting use in mind, while the Model 57 received Smith & Wesson’s more refined finish, adjustable sights, and target-oriented configuration. The long 8 3/8″ barrel on this Model 57-1 provides an extended sight radius and a steady, muzzle-heavy balance well suited to hunting and deliberate target shooting. Provenance to the John Taffin Collection adds meaningful collector interest given Taffin’s extensive writing on magnum revolvers and classic big-bore sixguns.

This Model 57-1 retains approximately 96% of its original blue finish, with muzzle wear, scattered handling scratches, minor compression marks, brown discoloration along the barrel rib, carbon rings on the cylinder face, and a cylinder turn line. The walnut target-style stocks remain in Very Good condition, while the bright 9/10 bore has sharp rifling, fouling, and no visible erosion. The action functions correctly with tight lockup, minor play at each chamber, a smooth double-action pull, and a crisp single-action pull. The included John Taffin Collection Certificate of Authenticity provides desirable provenance. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY