I'm Stumped Model 57 Snub

[BigRix]

I'm looking at this gun that a friend has for sale and I know I am a S&W newb, but I usually know where to find the info I need to ID a gun.

SCSW isn't helping and neither are my web searches. I hope you guys can help.

What I know is it is a Model 57 with what I measure as a 2 1/2" barrel and a finish like a Model 58. Pinned and recessed and made sometime around 1980 I think.

I'm very confused.

A couple of crappy pics.





If you need any other pics or want me to check any other things, let me know.

I'm trying to determine value so I can make him an offer on the gun.

It wouldn't surprise me to learn that this is some rare version.

I bought this from him a couple of weeks ago.

 

[Retired W4]

Looks like something Lew Horton would do. The short ejector rod has me going. How about a picture of the right side of the barrel and the grip frame?

I do know I like it.

 

[BigRix]

I'll have to go back to my friends to take more pics so pile up the requests and I will get them when I can.

 

[BUFF]

I think it is somebody's well-done project, not a factory gun.

You mention "Model 58 finish". The Model 58 had the same polished blue or nickel finish the Model 57 had. I think you mean the Model 28 Highway Patrolman finish, which was more matte than normal.

 

[old bear]

BigRix, I really believe the M-57 you are looking at is been modified after it left the factory. I'm basing this on the chipping of the finish on the frame above the trigger. The roll marks on the barrel, do not appear to be centered, and the ejector rod appears to be even shorter than the factory 2 ½" barreled models were. See photo of my 2 ½" barreled M-66 for comparison. This may be a cool belly gun, but I don't believe that this is some rare factory special revolver.

P.s nice Python you have pictured.

 

[Sebago Son]

This barrel was shortened FROM BOTH ENDS. The muzzle was lopped, but also the butt of the barrel. This was the best way, in my opinion, to make a minimum length tube as it preserves the front lock up point.

This sort of work was the hallmark of better gunsmiths like Andy Cannon and Larry Kelly.

 

[ladder13]

That's a gorgeous Python.

 

[murphydog]

I bought this from him a couple of weeks ago.

Oh, just a 3" Python?

 

[colt_saa]

As others have stated, the model 57 is not a factory offering. It was an aftermarket conversion.

Cute snubby.

 

[BigRix]

Thanks guys.

I think I will pass on this one.

 

[colt_saa]

Thanks guys.

I think I will pass on this one.

Just because it is not factory is not necessarily a reason to pass.

If the price is right, this would be a nice little piece to play with. It is certainly something I would purchase for my collection of 41 Magnums

 

[BigRix]

Well, let me ask.

How much should I offer him so that if I find I'm not thrilled about the gun, I can sell it down the road and make a few bucks?

How do you price a custom gun? I've never been able to wrap my head around that.

 

[rog8732]

Colt, I see you have a Python in that crowd. In .41 mag. as well, judging from your post. Who did that work?

Oh yeah, if there is anything on earth you might need, it certainly appears it would be another .41 mag.

What a very nice group !

 

[colt_saa]

Well, let me ask.

How much should I offer him so that if I find I'm not thrilled about the gun, I can sell it down the road and make a few bucks?

How do you price a custom gun? I've never been able to wrap my head around that.

A revolver with custom work of unknown origin or quality is just a revolver to me and I offer according to condition.

A revolver with a known pedigree is a different story and I take into account the artist that produced it.

 

[colt_saa]

Colt, I see you have a Python in that crowd. In .41 mag. as well, judging from your post. Who did that work?

Oh yeah, if there is anything on earth you might need, it certainly appears it would be another .41 mag.

What a very nice group !

The group photo is actually very out of date. At least a dozen have been added since I shot that.

The Python was advertised in 41 Magnum in the 60s. 5 Royal Blue prototypes were assembled at the factory. This Python is one of the 125 that were assembled from parts in Texas. I believe it was John Taffin that used to have the story of these on his website. Foolishly I did not save it and can no longer find it.

Until I have the full set, I will always be looking for another 41 Magnum

 

[papajohn428]

The group photo is actually very out of date. At least a dozen have been added since I shot that.

That picture is so old I had it on my PC - three computers ago! I know it's a pain getting them all out and getting everyone to smile at the same time, but I think it's time for a new Family Portrait!

 

[got2hav1]

OP, Nice Python in my favorite size too.