Stainless Freedom Arms Model 97 Premier Grade .44 Spl. 5.5″ SA Revolver
SOLD FOR: $2,417.00
LSB#: LSB260630WF005
Make: Freedom Arms
Model: 97 Premier Grade
Serial Number: T0752
Year of Manufacture: 1997-Present / Modern
Caliber: .44 Special
Action Type: Single Action Revolver, 5-Shot with Unfluted Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FREEDOM ARMS MODEL 97 44 SPECIAL” and “FREEDOM, WYOMING U.S.A.” The right side of the frame is marked “FREEDOM ARMS / PREMIER GRADE”. The serial number “T 0752” is stamped on the left side of the frame below the cylinder window.
Barrel Length: 5 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a black blade with a serrated rear face, secured to a ramped base on the top of the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable black target sight screwed to the topstrap in a milled slot, with windage and elevation adjustment screws and a square notch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fitted with smooth two-piece laminated hardwood panels secured by a slotted screw-through escutcheons. The wood shows light handling marks, including a thin scratch on the top of the right panel and light marks on the butt end. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Satin Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its original satin stainless steel finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling and operational wear. There is a small light scratch on the right side of the barrel near the muzzle and light handling marks on the wood at the butt end. The markings are clear. The screws are lightly tooled with strong slots. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a checkered spur, the loading gate swings open on the right side of the frame, and the checkered ejector rod head is present in its under-barrel housing. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Freedom Arms Model 97 is the mid-frame five-shot single action introduced in 1997 as the smaller companion to the big Model 83, built entirely of stainless steel with a transfer-bar safety system. The Premier Grade bright brushed finish shows extra attention to cosmetics, with screw-adjustable rear sights, and laminated hardwood grips. The .44 Special chambering followed in the early 2000s, pairing a classic cartridge with a modern precision-built platform.
The satin stainless finish is even and consistent with only light handling wear, and the bore is bright and sharp, rated 9.75 out of 10. The action functions correctly, the markings are clear, and the grips show only light handling marks. A clean, honest example of Freedom Arms’ mid-frame five-shooter that will serve as both a shooter and a collectible. Please see our high definition photos via the link and good luck on your bids! -R.E.