Smith & Wesson Model 57 .41 Magnum 8 3/8″ Revolver, Blued 1980–1983 Modern

SOLD FOR: $1,350.00

LSB#: LSB250804MF017

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 57

Serial Number: N884080

Year of Manufacture: 1980–1983 / Modern

Caliber: .41 Magnum

Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON.” The right side of the barrel is marked “41 MAGNUM.” The right side of the frame bears the Marcus Registratus, and the right side plate bears the S&W monogram trademark. The crane cut is marked “MOD 57” with the serial number “N884080.” The serial number is also found on the butt.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with an orange insert, fixed to a raised boss on the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch micro-click adjustable sight pinned to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are factory Goncalo Alves target stocks with the football cutout, diamond checkering, and inset S&W medallions. The checkering remains sharp, though there is light verdigris forming on the medallions. The grips are well-fitted and display only minor handling marks. Overall, they are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: High Polish Blue with Case-Colored Hammer and Trigger

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 96% of its original blue finish. There are a few faint handling marks and some light edge wear on the muzzle and cylinder. The cylinder face shows very minor burn rings typical of limited firing. The hammer and trigger retain vivid case coloring. The action and crane area show evidence of factory hand-fitting and beveling consistent with S&W craftsmanship of the early 1980s. The screw heads are sharp, and all markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly in both single and double action. The cylinder locks up solidly with proper timing. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Model 57 was introduced in 1964 as the premium .41 Magnum revolver, designed alongside the now-famous Model 58 to offer law enforcement a controllable magnum-class sidearm. Built on the robust N-frame, the Model 57 quickly earned a following among handgun hunters and marksmen who appreciated its accuracy, balance, and exceptional fit and finish. By the 1980s, these revolvers represented the height of S&W’s traditional hand-fitting era, with polish and timing that are seldom seen in later production guns.

The .41 Magnum cartridge itself was conceived in the early 1960s as a “middle ground” between the .357 and .44 Magnum — offering flatter trajectories and heavy-bullet authority without the recoil of its larger sibling. Though it never achieved widespread law enforcement adoption, it remains beloved by aficionados for its ballistic performance and versatility in both field and range use.

This particular example, with its 8 3/8” barrel, vivid case colors, and superb condition, showcases the precision and craftsmanship of early 1980s Smith & Wesson production. It’s a prime specimen of the Model 57’s appeal — powerful, elegant, and built to an impeccable standard.

We are no longer offering layaway.  KF