More a Question of Grips / Stocks (as Received With a “Pre-27”)

[SixgunFife]

I’ve taken delivery of a 1954-era S&W .357 Magnum, an S-prefix “pre-27” with a 3-1/2” barrel. It came with a set of Magna-like stocks that I don’t believe are original S&W equipment, but I wanted to post a few pics and see if their markings rang a bell with any of the membership here.

The stocks carry no medallion and are inscribed inside with “N.S” (no period after the “S”) and “AJE.” Also, there is a number “2” on them. On one of the panels, a handwritten “N” appears. The stocks feel as if they are somewhat thicker than factory ones, but that could just be my misinterpretation; I don’t have a set of factory Magnas handy to compare to.

They are an almost-but-not-quite perfect fit to the frame. Combined with a Tyler T-Grip, I believe they will work for now. They feel good in-hand and I like their coloration, to boot.

Do the markings on them mean anything to anyone reading this?

My inclination is to eventually grab a set of period-correct factory Magnas.

Pictures attached and thank you for your time!

 

[JayCeeNC]

"AJE" is Art Jewel Enterprises, an old grip making company.

 

[SixgunFife]

^^ Thank you for that info!

 

[gmborkovic]

Barnie, first off, nice gun. The grips are something else. I dont see anything that is period correct. Or even S&W mfg. The list is too long. Get a set of diamond N frame magnas. Or dont and just shoot the poop out of it.

 

[SixgunFife]

^^ Oh, yeah - either way I’m planning to shoot this a lot, Lord willing!

 

[handejector]

N Square
AJE like he said.

 

[Kansasgunner]

Very nice 357 Magnum!
JayCeeNC is spot on, and I believe Art Jewel Enterprises became Eagle Grips.

 

[SixgunFife]

^^ Thank you both! I’d wondered if the “N.S” reference might allude to “N-Square.” In doing a little Googling, I saw where Art Jewel had some sort of Eagle Grips connection - cool.

Many, many thanks again for the info on this, folks.

 

[RKmesa]

I’ve taken delivery of a 1954-era S&W .357 Magnum, an S-prefix “pre-27” with a 3-1/2” barrel.

Looks like you got your answer to the grip question. Now we would love a few more photos of that beautiful Magnum... please.

 

[Retired W4]

Yea, some body took good care of that one over the years.

 

[mchom]

Congratulations on a fine acquisition! Beautiful gun!

 

[SixgunFife]

Hey, thanks again, all! I’ve had this one to the range twice now. I believe it’s the best-shooting N-frame that I’ve owned to-date. This one went to Nelson Ford for a tune-up (sent by the previous owner) and it really shows. I think my other revolvers may need a trip out West at some point, as well!

Thanks to a fellow member, a set of period-correct diamond Magnas are on their way and will likely replace the current AJE stocks.

The 3-1/2” gun was shot alongside a 5” 27-2 and a 1960s-vintage Blackhawk in .357.

 

[RKmesa]

Hey, thanks again, all! I’ve had this one to the range twice now. I believe it’s the best-shooting N-frame that I’ve owned to-date. This one went to Nelson Ford for a tune-up (sent by the previous owner) and it really shows. I think my other revolvers may need a trip out West at some point, as well!

Nelson is a friend of mine and all of my shooting Smiths have spent time in his shop. They really are a delight to shoot.

Thanks for posting some more photos and all the best!

 

[OIF2]

A nice set of Herrett's Ropers, re-designed by Skeeter Skelton, would look pretty good on that one!
Bob

 

[StrawHat]

I am very partial to the Magna stock, either S&W or other makers. This pair is from forum member, bigmtnman.

Shown on a S&W Model 1950, 45 ACP Target revolver.

Kevin

 

[younggun22]

A nice set of Herrett's Ropers, re-designed by Skeeter Skelton, would look pretty good on that one!
Bob

Might be my favorite set of after market stocks that aren’t super collectible. I have a set on a model 19 and on model 22 thunder ranch