Model 57 anomalies

[JP@AK]

I thought we'd had some discussion here of non-sequential dash numbers or lack of them in the variations of the .41 Magnum Model 57 relative to serial number. I only own one of the beasts and don't really collect N frame revolvers even though I have a half-century love affair with the Highway Patrolman.

Yesterday at the gun show here in Palmer, I was talking to a guy who had several S&W revolvers on his table, including a nice K-22 Masterpiece from 1954. From out of his stash behind the table he handed me a Model 57 (no dash number). The serial number was in the N608xxx range (I didn't write it down). A "no-dash" from c. 1979? Wow. That seemed to be a long way off. Until I got home and looked it up in the SCSW. The dash one didn't appear until 1982, when the pinned barrel and counterbored cylinder went away. You learn something new every day. Old dogs can learn new tricks!

 

[mikeruns]

Did you add the model 57 to your collection?
I would love a 4” version but it has eluded me….I do have an SFPD model 58, a couple HP’s in 4” & 6”, and a model 29 mtn gun-and once owned a model 657 with the hideous 8-3/8” bbl, but my dream is a sweet 4” m57….
Cheers

 

[JP@AK]

Did you add the model 57 to your collection?

No. It wasn't in great shape and I already have a very nice one. Moreover, as I mentioned above, I don't collect N frames, so my available resources go into I and K frames that fit my collecting propensities.

I do agree that a 4" example would be something I'd probably pick up if one comes along. But I'm not out looking for one.

 

[Hair Trigger]

I thought we'd had some discussion here of non-sequential dash numbers or lack of them in the variations of the .41 Magnum Model 57 relative to serial number.

.... he handed me a Model 57 (no dash number). The serial number was in the N608xxx range (I didn't write it down). A "no-dash" from c. 1979? Wow. That seemed to be a long way off. Until I got home and looked it up in the SCSW. The dash one didn't appear until 1982, when the pinned barrel and counterbored cylinder went away. You learn something new every day. Old dogs can learn new tricks!

The M58 did not have a series change during its entire original production run. They are ALL no-dash guns.

Both of mine (M57 and M58) are early production with "S" prefixes.