S&W Model 58????

RickDorenzo · Nov 9, 2020

I have a model 58 with the following serial number stamped on the frame butt: S296324. This number seems to be outside of model 58 range of production serial numbers. It is nickel and (weirdly) chambered in 44 mag. Is this actually a model 58 or a rebuild custom shop model other than a model 58 with a 58 frame and different model frame butt. I'm confused. This is probably the nicest revolver I have ever owned. Additionally, not only is it chambered in 44 mag but it is hamerless as well. ???????

Bullet Bob · Nov 9, 2020

Hi Rick, welcome to the forum. I'm not sure where you're getting information that your gun's number is outside the correct range, it does seem appropriate for a late 60's gun.

By hammerless, I'm going to assume you mean that someone has cut off the hammer spur. Is it marked .44 magnum?

This is a situation where plenty of good pictures would really help.

RickDorenzo · Nov 9, 2020

I'll take some pics and post them later today. Thanks for the reply. I am, obviously, relatively ignorant about this revolver and appreciate clarity!

RickDorenzo · Nov 9, 2020

Next noob question: I have taken pics but how do I post them?

sceva · Nov 9, 2020

when making a post scroll down and you will see this:

Attach Files
Valid file extensions: bmp doc gif jpe jpeg jpg pdf png psd txt zip

Just click on manage attachments and download from your computor.

OR;

You can use a photo service like imgur or postimage to link to photos in your post

El_Phantasmo · Nov 9, 2020

As an owner of a Model 58 myself, this sounds interesting and I look forward to the pics!

I wonder if the "1" in the .41 Magnum is stamped weird, and just looks like a "4" perhaps?

Art Doc · Nov 9, 2020

At this point, given the utter lack of information offered, anything is possible.

1. It may have the incorrect model number stamped on it. That happens.

2. It may be a custom built conversion from 41 to 44 Magnum. That happens.

3. The model number and/or caliber markings may have been misread. That happens.

The 58 was a fixed sight service revolver. TMK all 44 Magnums had adjustable sights. The serial you provided is quite possibly for a Model 58, or 57 or 29. Photos wouyld help greatly.

BigBill · Nov 9, 2020

I heard of lots of s&w N frames being converted to 44 mag during the Dirty Harry demand. I wonder if this one is a latter converted one to 44 mag. It would be cheaper than buying a new m29. Just a thought.
Wouldn’t it have a N for nickel somewhere on the butt?

murphydog · Nov 10, 2020

The first reported model 58 was S 256500 in 1964, so S 296324 is later and obviously (originally) possible as one of these, especially if it is stamped MOD 58.

I have seen at least one .44 Magnum conversion to a model 58; the absent hammer spur certainly speaks to some aftermarket gunsmithing.

steelslaver · Nov 10, 2020

That plus late model fix sight N frames in that serial number range would be a very rare birds in anything besides av model 58. Never hear of a factory one in 44 mag.

SAFireman · Nov 10, 2020

steelslaver said:
That plus late model fix sight N frames in that serial number range would be a very rare birds in anything besides av model 58. Never hear of a factory one in 44 mag.

Doc44 has one of the 3 that were built in this configuration....

Shootzemm58 · Nov 13, 2020

Which cartridge fits in the cylinder? To really know, slug the barrel.

ChattCat · Nov 13, 2020

I just love seeing that 58/44 of Doc44

hibbs · Nov 13, 2020

I have M58 sn.S296539 and it was shipped in 1968, well before the N designation guns started.

steelslaver · Nov 14, 2020

steelslaver said:
That plus late model fix sight N frames in that serial number range would be a very rare birds in anything besides av model 58. Never hear of a factory one in 44 mag.

SAFireman said:
Doc44 has one of the 3 that were built in this configuration....

and that is a nice rare bird
The never say never with S&W rule applies here

Jack Flash · Nov 14, 2020

Doc's gun looks great and is one any collector would love to have.

My question is, would anyone here even dare to SHOOT it with full power .44 M loads?

moralem · Nov 14, 2020

S&W Model 58????

You never know with SW. The big book of SW says that total production was 20287 from 1964-1977 and introductory numbers were from 256500-260632. If that is correct, which we know it isn’t always, shouldn’t the last model 58 not be greater than 276787? A model 58 with a serial of 296324 would put production at close to 40000. And close to 20,000 guns beyond what is cited in the big book.....just doing the math based on what is in SW book......my 58 is serial is 257586, so an early production gun that may have gone to an agency....if only they could talk.....here is my 58 next to my 520....

Art Doc · Nov 14, 2020

And of course he never comes back. I hate it when they do that.

cowboy4evr · Nov 14, 2020

Talking about conversions . I had a friend in Az that had Hamilton Bowen convert model 58 to 45 LC . Years later he got a model 21 and had him convert in to 45 LC also . Made a very nice gun , very well done . Regards Paul

SAFireman · Nov 14, 2020

moralem said:
You never know with SW. The big book of SW says that total production was 20287 from 1964-1977 and introductory numbers were from 256500-260632. If that is correct, which we know it isn’t always, shouldn’t the last model 58 not be greater than 276787? A model 58 with a serial of 296324 would put production at close to 40000. And close to 20,000 guns beyond what is cited in the big book.....just doing the math based on what is in SW book......my 58 is serial is 257586, so an early production gun that may have gone to an agency....if only they could talk.....here is my 58 next to my 520....

moralem - I believe that your Model 58 went to the Louisiana Department of Corrections. I have only seen three of these, and they were all LA/SE TX guns.

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