Smith & Wesson Model 581 Nickel .357 Magnum 4” Double Action Revolver & Box
SOLD FOR: $1,026.00
LSB#: LSB250719PC002
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 581, Distinguished Service Magnum (Fixed Sight)
Serial Number: AAP4927
Year of Manufacture: 1983 (per “AAP” serial prefix)
Caliber: .357 Magnum, also accepts .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out 6-Shot Fluted Cylinder
Barrel Length: 4” Heavy Barrel, full underlug
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM”. The right side is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas address. The crane cut is marked “MOD. 581” and the butt is stamped with the matching serial number “AAP4927”. The factory box is numbered to the gun.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch milled into the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fit with factory checkered walnut service stocks with inset brass S&W medallions. The grips show crisp checkering with only the faintest signs of handling. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks rate in Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Factory Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its original nickel finish. The plating is bright and reflective, with only faint handling evidence and a barely perceptible turn line. The screw heads are sharp and the markings remain crisp. This revolver is factory-fired only, showing no signs of use beyond test firing. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly with smooth double action and crisp single action. The cylinder locks up properly with little play. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright with sharp rifling and no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a perfect 10/10.
Accessories: The revolver comes with its original two-piece blue Smith & Wesson box with correct factory end label matching the revolver’s serial number, as well as a factory cleaning rod and brush (sealed in bag).
Our Assessment:
The Model 581 was Smith & Wesson’s fixed-sight entry in the Distinguished Service Magnum series, introduced in 1980 on the then-new L-frame. Designed as a “best of both worlds” platform, the L-frame combined the handling and size of the K-frame with the durability and strength of the N-frame, providing a revolver capable of enduring extensive .357 Magnum use without undue wear. Unlike its adjustable-sight sibling, the Model 586, the 581 retained a simple fixed-sight configuration, intended for law enforcement agencies that wanted rugged dependability.
This particular revolver, manufactured in 1983, is a prime example of the breed. Most 581s were produced with a blued finish; factory nickel plating was far less common and today is considered a scarce variant, especially when paired with its original numbered box and tools. Retaining about 98% of its finish, with a flawless bore and no use beyond factory firing, this gun is as close to “new old stock” as one can hope to find.
Collectors of Smith & Wesson revolvers understand the short production span of the 581 (1980–1988) and its relative rarity compared to the 586. Adding in the seldom-seen nickel finish, this example becomes a top-tier collectible. It represents an important transitional moment in S&W history — the birth of the L-frame — and it would be a crown jewel for any enthusiast of American revolvers. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid.
