Dan Wesson Model 12 Target DA/SA Revolver 6” & 2.5” .357 Magnum W/ Box C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,575.00
LSB#: LSB250728RW001
Make: Dan Wesson
Model: 12 Target. This pistol appears to have been re-imported from Germany.
Serial Number: 1071
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1970
Caliber: .357 Mag
Action Type: 6 Shot Revolver, DA/SA, Swing Out Fluted Cylinder.
Markings: This revolver is marked, “DAN WESSON ARMS MONSON MASS. U.S.A. / MODEL NO. -12-” on the frame and, “DAN WESSON ARMS .357 MAGNUM CTG.” on the barrel. By the crane cut “SIMPSON LTD G’BURG IL”. The top strap has German proofs and a shield “70”. The frame under the grip “1071”.
Barrel Length: 6” and 2.5”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped squared post pinned to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch target sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a single piece smooth walnut “target” grip. There is light handling wear. There are no cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The 6” bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion showing lead fouling in the first third of the bore. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 9/10.
The 2.5” bore is bright with sharp rifling, no erosion, and no fouling. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The surface of the revolver shows light handling with no notable marks. The 6” barrel shroud toward the muzzle shows discoloration/browning in the finish throughout. The right side of the hammer has a discoloration stain. The cylinder has a thin turn line. The mechanics are solid with light side to side play while in lock up. The markings are clear, the pins unmarred, and the screw head sharp. Overall this revolver is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. The mechanics are Excellent. The trigger is very light, smooth and crisp. The timing is good and the lockup is tight.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol includes a serialized Cardboard box, paperwork, barrel wrench, 2.5” barrel, and shim gauge.
Our Assessment: This Dan Wesson Model 12 target revolver is a purpose-built .357 Magnum offered here with both a 6-inch and a 2.5-inch interchangeable barrel set, giving the owner true versatility between long-barrel target work and a compact duty/carry setup. It wears a clean blued finish, finely figured target wood grips, and a fully adjustable target sighting system that lets shooters dial in elevation and windage for precise aim. The overall fit and finish, combined with the longer barrel option, make it well suited to disciplined target strings and follow-up shots where sight radius and balance matter.
Beyond its shooting credentials the revolver carries interesting provenance: clear German proof marks and a U.S. import mark indicate the gun likely spent time in Germany and was subsequently re-imported to the United States, a backstory that adds collector interest. Mechanically straightforward and built for accuracy, this Model 12 blends match-grade ergonomics and sights with practical barrel interchangeability appealing to shooters who want both a serious range revolver and a compact option in one tidy, historically interesting package. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding.-R.L.
