Model 57 Classic

[pacecars]

It has been a while since I had a S&W and also the .41 Magnum so I decided to solve the problem and ordered a new Classic Model 57 with a 6 inch barrel. Is there anything I need to know about the new ones? I have heard they come from the custom shop (I read that after I bought it). Dos the custom shop do anything to them and are they different or better then the standard production guns?

[cowboy4evr]

Coming from the " custom shop " ? Never heard that one . You might not enjoy the grips that come on it . On a 6" barrel , I like the old style target grips . They are fuller (fatter) , better transfer of recoil in your hand . But , before changing them out , be sure and give them an honest chance . Reduced loads might feel very comfortable . If you are not a reloader , LAX ammo , out of Calif offers reduced loads , about 950 fps with a 210 gr bullet , if I remember correctly . For shooting paper , that's all you need and they are not expensive , like full magnum ammo from others . There's a lot of discussion about using the " old " Hoppes #9 to clean with vs the " newer " stuff as S&W's bluing process has changed . I just don't use Hoppes . I use Kroil for the inside of the barrel and cylinder cartridge chambers , Remoil on the outside . Good Luck and Have fun with your new purchase , Regards, Paul

[CajunBass]

I don't know about the 57, but I've been eyeing a "Classic" Model 29-2 (4"). I just like the way they look.

I do have a "Classic" Model 19-9 that I think favorably compares with the Model 19-4 I've got.



(Those grips are aftermarket, but I have replaced them with a period correct set of target's.)



I do agree that the grips on the 19-9 are a little thinner than I'd like IF I did a lot of magnum shooting. However, since I shoot mostly 38's they don't bother me. I suspect the same would be true of others.

[tlawler]

Originally Posted by pacecars

Is there anything I need to know about the new ones?

Don’t lose the key!

Personally, if I had wanted a “Classic” model 57, I would have searched out a nice example of a P&R model. Money would have probably been about the same.

[pacecars]

Originally Posted by cowboy4evr

Coming from the " custom shop " ? Never heard that one . You might not enjoy the grips that come on it . On a 6" barrel , I like the old style target grips . They are fuller (fatter) , better transfer of recoil in your hand . But , before changing them out , be sure and give them an honest chance . Reduced loads might feel very comfortable . If you are not a reloader , LAX ammo , out of Calif offers reduced loads , about 950 fps with a 210 gr bullet , if I remember correctly . For shooting paper , that's all you need and they are not expensive , like full magnum ammo from others . There's a lot of discussion about using the " old " Hoppes #9 to clean with vs the " newer " stuff as S&W's bluing process has changed . I just don't use Hoppes . I use Kroil for the inside of the barrel and cylinder cartridge chambers , Remoil on the outside . Good Luck and Have fun with your new purchase , Regards, Paul

Sorry should have said Performance Center

[kennyb]

congrats...my fav.caliber...excellent choice