Smith & Wesson S&W Model 13-2 M&P .357 Magnum 4″ DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1978
SOLD FOR: $1,132.00
LSB#: LSB251029CW022
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 13-2, .357 Magnum Military & Police Heavy Barrel
Serial Number: 3D96296
Year of Manufacture: 1978 (ref: The Standard Catalogue of Smith & Wesson 5th Ed.)
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON” and the right side of the barrel is marked “S.&W.357 MAGNUM”. The yoke cut is marked “MOD. / 13-2”. The yoke is marked “95180”. The butt is marked with the serial number. The side plate has an S&W monogram logo and the frame’s right side has the four-line Marcas Registradas address. The yoke and sides of the grip frame have inspection marks.
Barrel Length: 4”, Pinned Heavy Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a red-painted fixed serrated ramp blade forged to the tapered solid rib on the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch milled into the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered wood stocks with medallions with a raptor. There are what appear to be Tyler T-grips modifying the front edge of the stock. There is a 1/8 inch chip missing out of the heel of the right grip panel. Checkering is semi-sharp. There are a few pressure marks and scratches on the stocks. Overall, the stocks are in a Very Good 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, though there is some stubborn fouling. 9/10 bore rating
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is a thin sharp turn line on the cylinder. Finish is rubbed off of the barrel near the muzzle and the cylinder shows very light handling wear. One screwhead shows a hint of wear, the others are sharp. All have useable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates a Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up well on each chamber with no side-to-side play. The single-action trigger is crisp and the double action is smooth. 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: Black leather holster in Fine condition.
Our Assessment: The Model 13 continued from the model 10-6 prototype with a heavy barrel and an extractor rod that was not shrouded. Built on a K-frame from 1974 to 1999, it was a popular FBI issue at times during the 1970s and 1980s and was the last revolver they issued before their changeover to semi-auto issue arms.
The model 13 should not be confused with the M-13 Aircrewman model — which was a .38 J-frame built by both Colt and Smith and Wesson for the Air Force in the 1950s. The model 19 is essentially the same gun as the model 13 with adjustable sights and a partial underlug. The model 65 is virtually the same gun in stainless.
The Model 13 lacks the shrouded extractor rod commonly found on magnums. It was offered in both 3”, round butt or 4”, square butt (as here).
Here is a chance to own a collectable piece of US law enforcement history. Please admire the photos of this classic problem-solver. -C.B.
