Model 58

[Slyk54]

Looking at a model 58- (haven't handled it yet; just seen it on line) unfamiliar with the model and have read that it is a k-frame with a heavy barrel. Also so a comment somewhere that it is an n-frame.
So, if it is a k-frame, is it durable enough to handle the magnum round long-term?

 

[biku324]

It's an N-frame, fixed sight, 4" barreled 41 magnum. They are superb carry guns for deep woods or horseback. Expect to pay $750-$1200 depending on condition.

Mine was built in 1967 and I routinely use full magnum loads.

 

[DGNY]

Congratulations on running into a very fine Smith. Model 58 is spiritual successor to the 38-44 Heavy Duty, which boasted the 38 Special on steroids up through the 50s.

In the 60s, with 4 inch barrel, the fixed sight N frame was re-offered for police use, in 41 magnum. Basically the 44 mag at 7/8 power, with less recoil. While there was a reduced moxie lead bullet round for police use, the full 41 Magnum is always at your service in the model 58.

Please let us know how your examination/negotiations work out!

 

[JP@AK]

Slyk54

You found a great gun. Get it, if you can.

S&W only made two models for the .41 Magnum cartridge, both were introduced in 1964, and both were N frames.

The Model 57 had target sights, the Model 58 was a Military & Police model with fixed sights. The Model 58 was only made from 1964 until 1977, with just over 20,000 units produced. The Model 57 was made in much higher numbers and lasted until 1993, going through four engineering changes during that period. The dash four only lasted one year.

Both models were reintroduced this century in the so-called "Classic" series, but as far as I'm concerned those don't count. (I know, I know, I'm just a dumb traditionalist).

 

[robertrwalsh]

These are GREAT guns. I own one and it is my backwoods bear and big cat gun. Load it up with Rhino Rollers and it will take down anything in the lower 48, provided you can hit with it. Ammo is problematic unless you reload.

 

[Iggy]

I carried this one while a LEO for 13 years. I bought it NIB and a box of shells for $81.00 over 50 years ago.



I drew it and dry fired it 10 times every day at the beginning of my shift and fired 18 rounds on my days of for those 13 years, and it shows, but it's still tighter than a bull's butt in fly season.
We were in a couple of serious social encounters, and it did what it was designed to do. It got me home at the end of the shift.

It is a fine gun with a very effective cartridge. I will never part with mine, and it will go to my Son when I croak.
You don’t see them often.
I would jump on it if you can.

 

[gwpercle]

The N framed model 58's hold up well .
I reload and cast bullets for the M58 in my avatar , owned it since 1975 and one of my favorite shooters . They were well made , fitted and have close tolerances ...they are uncommonly accurate .
If you reload and if you cast bullets ... get it !
The 41 Magnum shines when you can load and shoot ammo other than the few factory 41 Magnum offerings ...
Shooting handguns is my hobby and I always shoot the M58 at the range ... 45 years of shooting and the gun is still tight .
Gary

 

[Neversink n Klapperthal]

the 58 is gaining nicely in popularity and consequently one of the better investments

 

[Birdhunter6]

I add my vote to those above: The 58 is actual CLASSIC. Not a copy with a marketing in name only classic title.

If you can acquire it I predict you'll keep it.

 

[SAFireman]

Almost everything you need to know can be found here: The 'unofficial' 58 Club

Failing that....here is the one that I started down the 58 path with. It has been all over creation, and it is far more accurate than most folks can hold.

 

[Hair Trigger]

Slyk54

You found a great gun. Get it, if you can.

S&W only made two models for the .41 Magnum cartridge, both were introduced in 1964, and both were N frames.

The Model 57 had target sights, the Model 58 was a Military & Police model with fixed sights.
Both models were reintroduced this century in the so-called "Classic" series, but as far as I'm concerned those don't count. (I know, I know, I'm just a dumb traditionalist).

Me, too. Reissues aren't originals.

Picture of each, for the OP to compare, The only thing is, the factory M57 doesn't have the vented rib like mine does (and I sort of wish mine didn't either). The M57 came with either a 4", 6" or 8-3/8" barrel and target stocks, target trigger and target hammer. The M58 only came with a 4" barrel, and standard trigger and hammer. The stocks it came with are called PC magnas, the bottoms are curved instead of edged, so as to make the gun more concealable. Either gun could be ordered in nickel, but I believe the M58 is pretty rare in nickel. Can someone turn my picture right side up? Darn it.

 

[csurp34]

Here you go.

 

[Hair Trigger]

Here you go.

How'd you do that? I flipped that picture three times on my drive, it shows up right side up every time until I post it.

 

[muzzleblast]

The M-58 is simply one of the most businesslike wheelguns ever made.

And Elmer, Skeeter, Jordan, et. al. who lobbied S&W and Remington to introduce the .41 Mag. deserve eternal gratitude.

 

[gerhard1]

Here is one of many threads on the Model 58.

AAR on Model 58

Hope this helps a bit.

 

[csurp34]

How'd you do that? I flipped that picture three times on my drive, it shows up right side up every time until I post it.

Did you save it after you flipped it?

 

[tlawler]

I’d say buy it now! It will be a while before you see another Model 58. They’re nearly as rare as hen’s teeth in my experience. I spent years perusing gun shows and LGS’s before I found one. If you later decide the .41 Mag round isn’t your cup of tea, you won’t lose any money on selling it, as long as you don’t grossly overpay. Get some pictures and post them and we can tell you what would be a fair price.

Here’s a picture of my M57 and M58.

 

[mminor88]

S&W made 3 models for the 41 mag. 57, 58, and 657

 

[kennyb]

I have a number of .41 mag. and in my opinion, best caliber out there. You will love it!

 

[cowboy4evr]

The 41 magnum has more " punch " than a 357 magnum . It will do just about everything the 44 magnum will do and does it easier . What's not to like about the 41 magnum ? Regards Paul

 

[glenncal1]

Somebody say Nickle 58? (sorry for crappy photo)

 

[Hair Trigger]

The 41 magnum will do just about everything the 44 magnum will do and does it easier . What's not to like about the 41 magnum ? Regards Paul

And, it's not a poser like .44M; it's truly .410 diameter, where the .44M is actually "only" .430. Why should the .44 try to squeeze in another 0.001, does it have an inferiority complex, or feel that it is too close to the .41 otherwise? I wonder why Elmer didn't want to call it the .43 Magnum? Can you imagine the pain it would have caused Dirty Harry to say, "this is the .43Magnum, just barely the most powerful handgun in the world...?"

Heck, he could have had a M57 in all those movies and we'd never have known the difference. And he could have a M58 as his backup gun.

 

[SuperMan]

S&W made 3 models for the 41 mag. 57, 58, and 657

...and 357...two models....PD and NG...

 

[BigBill]

I’m fairly new to s&w revolvers. I’ve shot RedHawks in 44 mag most of my life. The s&w m58 is the first n frame I fired. I’m not fond of shorter 4” barrels. But the engineers at s&w did a great job with the heavier N frame. The N frames balance with the 4” barrel in 41 mag is perfection. I don’t understand why the 41 mag is overlooked by so many, it’s a awesome caliber.

 

[S.B.]

One of the most sought after and IMHO desirable S&Ws of al times? As I've said before I should of bought one when S&W couldn't sell them for $98 but waited till just recently to acquire my first one.
Steve