Smith & Wesson Model 57 Double Action Revolver 41 Magnum 8 3/8″ Nickel 1977
SOLD FOR: $1,003.00
LSB#: LSB250528MY080
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 57
Serial Number: N430639
Year of Manufacture: 1977–1978 Modern
Caliber: .41 Magnum
Action Type: Double Action, 6-shot Revolver
Barrel Length: 8 3/8″
Markings: The right side of the barrel is marked “41 MAGNUM.” The left side of the frame has the S&W trademark logo. The right side of the frame is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The yoke cut is marked “N430639 / MOD. 57.” The serial number can be found on the butt as well.
Sights / Optics: Red-insert ramp front sight and micro-adjustable rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Target-profile walnut stocks with football relief around the speed-loader cut and inset S&W medallions. The panels show light handling and small marks, fit is proper, and checkering remains crisp.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling and scattered specks of oxidation that should clean. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: About 70% original nickel remains. There is freckled oxidation and localized thinning at edges and around the cylinder window and ejector shroud, with small patches of dark staining and pinprick pitting from storage. Edges show handling lines and the usual turn line on the cylinder. Screw heads are serviceable.
Mechanics: The barrel is pinned and the cylinder is recessed. The action cycles and locks with a target-width hammer and target-width grooved trigger installed. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories: Fitted presentation case with blue lining, cleaning rod, bore brush, and combination screwdriver.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1964, the Model 57 put Smith & Wesson’s premium N-frame treatment on the then-new .41 Magnum, pairing target features and high-polish finishes with long-barrel options like this 8 3/8″ example. The 1977–1978 production window places it squarely in the pinned-barrel, recessed-cylinder era collectors prize, complete with target hammer and trigger, red-ramp/adjustable sight set, and its presentation case and tools.
The .41 Magnum was conceived to split the difference between the .357’s flat shooting and the .44 Magnum’s authority, offering heavy-for-caliber bullets at useful velocities with excellent sectional density. This nickel 57 shows honest storage freckling yet remains a complete, correct long-barrel presentation piece. A careful, sympathetic cleaning will improve its already strong presence while preserving originality.
We are no longer offering layaway. KF
