I own a 457S. I bought it about a month ago but I haven't shot it. I am waiting for a replacement slide stop from S&W. I dropped the slide stop on the floor and for some crazy reason the pin came out as well as the plunger and the spring.

I also own a 3913. I bought the 457S because it is only slightly bigger than the 3913 which makes it an excellent gun for concealed carry. The 457S conceals much better than a Glock 23. I carry the 3913 and the Glock in Fist all kydex holsters. I can actually fit the 457S into the holster made for the 3913. The 3913 fits a little loose and the 457S fits a little more snug. Both guns disappear under any golf type shirt.

It would be nice if S&W had made the exact gun in the more expensive series. As far as I can tell there is no deluxe version of the 457S so if you want a light .45 3rd gen gun without a rail you pretty much have no choice. except the 457. The 4513 has the shorter grip that I don't find comfortable.

The guide rod on mine is steel but I think the plunger on the end is plastic. The plastic sights are ok and I have no intention of changing them. The plain fact is that there are not a lot of models of this type available from other manufacturers.

There seems to be a very strong demand for the 3913/908 guns and the prices are rising. I expect that there will always be a demand for the 457 guns also.

Bill