Model 581 - Wischo

[abbyonheyward]

A recent local transaction yielded a well used, but not abused, no dash, no M, model 581. The serial number has an AAP prefix which, according to the Fourth Edition of the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson, puts it shipping from the factory in +/- 1982. I own, and have previously owned, several fixed sight L frame revolvers so I’m familiar with platform. In my reading on this forum over the years, along with browsing the major firearms auction sites, I have developed a basic understanding of the Wischo company. As I understand it, and among numerous other things, Wischo imported firearms into Europe (and perhaps elsewhere). I know that the revolver that I have is neither rare nor unusually valuable. Cursory searches on this forum and elsewhere reveal a fair amount about Wischo as well as photos and information about numerous guns handled by Wischo, to include high-end S&W revolvers and pistols. I’m curious to know if anyone else here owns or has any information, specifically about a Wischo stamped model 581? My 581 has proof marks stamped on the frame behind the crane and on the business end of the barrel lug. One of the proof marks seems to show a shield with the number “83” inside, which may be indicative of the year 1983? I have no idea if the 581 that I have was included in a large lot of identical revolvers for a military or police force, or if it may have simply been available for purchase at at PX on a US military base somewhere. Any information and photos that you can share about other Wischo stamped 581s would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Shutthefrontdoor]

Here’s a good guide to get lost in for an hour or two. I’m a fan of WISCHO.

NRA Museums:

 

[abbyonheyward]

Based on the reference information linked by Shutthefrontdoor, it appears that the proof marks are German. Anyone else here have, or know of, another 581 with German import proof marks? Perhaps I should be inquiring among a German audience?

 

[diecidecimi]

Based on the reference information linked by Shutthefrontdoor, it appears that the proof marks are German. Anyone else here have, or know of, another 581 with German import proof marks? Perhaps I should be inquiring among a German audience?

I'm not German, but Italian. Anyway, here most S&W revolvers come from Germany and Belgium, where they were imported: so, we are used to have these proof marks on our guns. Nothing strange about Wischo, several other models were imported by them, sometimes on special orders with particular features.
The proof marks you have are the smokeless powder test , the Munchen proof bank and the year of testing.

link immagini


Edit: here another oddity: a M19 imported by Wischo, but with proof marks from Lieges (Belgium), the year is 1988 (the capital underscored letter P) and the marking of the inspector of that era ( Y under a star: Mr François Delsaux)



Special features maybe were the yellow longitudinal serrated front sight and the smooth trigger

 

[Baxter6551]

OP that’s a nice grab and I think it’s in great shape. The 581 is a grail gun for me now (or a 681 but prefer blue). I still kick myself for not buying a new one back in the day or passing on a used one because of some rust. The proof marks are cool IMO and a nice record of the guns history. I had no experience with L frame prior to acquiring a 686 snub last year and now I want a 4 inch.

 

[Walter Rego]

I have a Model 31-1 that bears WISCHO importer marks and Belgian proof marks. I bought it at a gun show here in California in new in the box condition. The box has no unusual markings or added labels. I surmise that it was purchased by an American serviceman who was stationed in Europe, maybe Germany, and was purchased through the base Rod & Gun Club and brought back in his personal belongings.

The 581 and 681 are outstanding guns, all business. But unfortunately brought out about the time police forces were transitioning away from revolvers. I think they were the equivalent of the old .38-44 Heavy Duty guns but with a slightly smaller frame but able to handle .357 loads with no problems.

Here's the WISCO markings on my 31-1. It shipped from the factory in November of 1986.