Model 657 3 inch

rpf2000 · Dec 4, 2023

I found this nice S&W Model 657 3" in .41 Magnum in a local gun shop. Unfortunately it was without box or papers, so I'm not sure, when I was made.
I could only have a look in the Standard Catalog 4th edition and there are 2 possibilities:
a) 1998 for Lew Horton
or
b) product code 103951 3" RB RR/WO 1986

I'm sure, some of the experts here can help.

The gun is fired and needs a good cleaning in front of the cylinder. But otherwise I think there is nothing to complain about it.

Breadman1 · Dec 4, 2023

Nice find, I’ve been looking for one locally and never see them.

Retired W4 · Dec 4, 2023

I'm no expert but I think a. and b. are pretty much the same gun. Call it what you want. I call it pretty cool.

colt_saa · Dec 4, 2023

While knowing the serial number would be the most helpful in guesstimating the revolvers Date of Manufacture, your gun is from the production that began in 1986, just like mine

Ours are product code 103951.

The 1998 revolvers have full lug barrels

Mine did not come to me with the original Factory Combats. I eventually put this next generation Factory Combat grip on it when they became available to me. I have since put a more era correct grip on them, but have not shot new photographs.

I love mine. I even carried it in an OWB holster for several years beginning back in 1991 when I bought this one. My carry ammunition was the now discontinued Remington 179 grain SJHP load.

BTW, we have Lew Horton for getting the Factory to go down the path of round butt frames on the N-frame.

He is also responsible for the start of the N-frame snubbies (3"). Prior to his ordering them the N-frames only went down to 3 1/2" barrels with the Model 27 (4" with the others). I know it is just and Inch or 1/2 inch but with that and the round butt frame it makes a big visual difference

Erich · Dec 4, 2023

Dang, what a nice find.

rpf2000 · Dec 4, 2023

Great, already a lot of information. Thanks.

And yes, I knew I forgot something to mention. The serial number is ANE41XX

USBP SW · Dec 4, 2023

I ended up with two 657 3", I purchased both used, about ten years apart, coincidentally at the same price of $250. Both have the ANE prefix (1986). The price for the more recent one was because the store believed the revolver was non-functioning, I felt certain that I knew the problem and brought my little Smith and Wesson sight adjustment screwdriver when I went to pick it up, tightened the strain screw and it worked perfectly.

Model 657 3 inch

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