Stainless AMT/TDE Auto Mag Mod. 160 .357 AMP 6.5” Barrel Semi Auto Pistol
SOLD FOR: $2,425.00
LSB#: LSB250528MY111
Make: TDE (Trade Deed Estates)
Model: Auto Mag Model 160
Serial Number: AO5555
Year of Manufacture: 1973 to 1982 / Modern
Caliber: .357 AMP
Action Type: Semi-Automatic SAO Hammer Fired, Magazine Fed
Markings: The bottom of the grip frame is marked with the serial number, “AO5555”. The upper is marked with the TDE logo and, “AUTO MAG .357 AMP MODEL 160 EL MONTE, CALIF / PAT PENDING / MADE IN U.S.A.”.
Barrel Length: 6.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade built into the vented barrel rib. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square notch rear sight pinned to the barrel rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has two piece serrated black plastic grip panels. There are some faint handling marks throughout. There are no cracks or chips. The grips rate in Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One x 7 round stainless steel magazines in Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Polished Stainless, Matte Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is some light fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 70% of its metal finish. There is heavy rust and patina throughout, mainly focused on the cast/nickel portions. There is moderate handling wear throughout. The action is quite stiff and gummed up and the internals are rusted. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Poor condition.
Mechanics: The action does not function correctly as the hammer is locked back and the trigger is dead. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one magazine, paperwork, and the original case.
Our Assessment: The Auto Mag Model 160 in .357 AMP (Auto Mag Pistol) is one of the most distinctive and ambitious semi-automatic handgun designs of the 20th century, combining raw power, space-age styling, and collector mystique. Designed in the late 1960s and produced by a succession of companies including TDE (Trade Deed Estates), the Auto Mag gained cult status thanks to its use in film and pop culture—notably featured in Sudden Impact by Clint Eastwood’s “Dirty Harry.” The .357 AMP cartridge, essentially a .44 Magnum case necked down to .357 caliber, delivers blistering velocities and dramatic performance, making the Auto Mag an icon of recoil and spectacle. This Model 160, manufactured between 1973 and 1982, features a 6.5″ vent-rib barrel, polished stainless and matte nickel finish, and adjustable sights for long-range pistol shooting.
Despite its legendary status, this example is in need of attention. Mechanically, the action is currently non-functional, with the hammer locked back and the trigger unresponsive. Internals show evidence of rust and gumming, and the exterior shows roughly 70% finish remaining, with corrosion concentrated on the cast/nickel alloy surfaces. The bore, however, remains solid—bright with sharp rifling and some fouling, rating 9/10. The pistol includes one original 7-round magazine, its factory case, and paperwork, making it a good candidate for restoration. For Auto Mag collectors and .357 AMP aficionados, this rare beast is a worthwhile project that, once properly refurbished, would reclaim its rightful place as one of the most powerful and visually striking handguns of its era. -R.E.
