Smith & Wesson S&W 1955 .45 Target Model Pre 25 .45 ACP 6.5″ Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1301
LSB#: 210424MA08
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: The 1955 .45 Target Heavy Barrel, Pre-Model 25
Serial Number: S165151
Year of Manufacture: 1956-1957
Caliber: .45 ACP & .45 Auto Rim
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, 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 side plate has S&W’s monogram logo, the right side of the frame has the four line Marcas Registradas. The sides of the grip frame have inspection marks, the butt is marked with the serial number. The yoke and yoke cut are marked with inspection marks. The interior of the ejector rod shroud, rear face of the cylinder, front face of the ejector (no letter prefix), and rear face of the yoke (no letter prefix) are marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 6 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade pinned to a serrated, ramped base fixed to the serrated barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut target stocks with S&W medallions and smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheon. There are a couple of scratches that have darkened on the left panel at the top towards the front, likely from ejection of brass. There are some little marks on the bottom faces. There is some wear on the bottom edge of the left panel towards the front. There are some light compressions, most noticeable on the front of the right panel. The checkering is generally strong. There are no 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 97% of its metal finish. There is some thinning on the sides of the barrel at the muzzle. There is faint thinning and frost on the sides of the frame at the barrel, hardly noticeable. There are a few light marks on the left of the frame, likely from ejecting brass. There are a few light marks on the cylinder and a thin turn line that has thinned the finish. There are a few small spots of surface oxidation on the right of the frame and on the sideplate, hidden with the grips installed. The screw heads are sharp to lightly worn with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double action trigger is smooth and the single action trigger is crisp. The cylinder locks up with light play on each of the six chambers. 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 1955 .45 Target Model, a heavy barreled target revolver chambered in .45 ACP with a 6 1/2″ barrel, adjustable sights, target trigger and target hammer. The model would later go on to become the model 25. The .45 ACP is still a popular caliber with a wide variety of ammunition available at reasonable prices (usually). This example is in about Fine Plus condition with about 97% of its original finish with some light wear, a bright bore and strong mechanics. While large for concealed carry, this revolver would be great for target shooting as the name implies, as a hunting sidearm, or even home defense. Please see our pictures and good luck!