I picked up a Model 57 4in this weekend. What the problem is it's nickle and it's peeling. The gun looks fantastic and if you hold the gun a foot in front of you, you wouldn't be able to tell. What I need to know is, is this a factory finish, is there any way to tell by the serial number? The serial is n144000, when I take the grips off it has a Lg. N and 51915. Any input would be helpful. Thank you
S&W 57....HELP!
- Thread starter surjimmy
- Start date
diamonback68
US Veteran
Probably factory, look at the back of the cylinder, is it stamped N?
Serial number won't tell you one way or the other.
Serial number won't tell you one way or the other.
sheriffoconee
Member
the N on the cylinder stands for nickel....yours is a factory finish...
jonbondave
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if it's peeling I think it'd be worth refinishing. I have a blue 57, it's my most prized firearm posession. It's in 98% or better condition, but i do shoot it. and i'll pack it come hiking season. and one day i'll have smith reblue it, if it wears to that point. If you just want to reblue to add value for sale you'll probably take ahit unless you got an amazing deal in the first place. Just my thoughts.
WVfishguy
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Who cares? Does it shoot well? Is the cylinder in time? If so, stop worrying and shoot the damn thing.
IMO, the .41 mag is the best caliber for the N-frame - there's just enough metal around the edges to keep it strong, which is why I prefer the .41 to larger calibers in the N-frame.
My 57 no dash is my favorite Smith, period.
You must reload if you shoot .41 mag - if you don't load your own, trade the gun for a Model 28.
Buy your brass here:Starline Brass STAR41 Starline 41 Mag brass (250 pcs. per bag) This is new production brass ***RELOADING COMPONENT ONLY*** | Ammunition: Components / Brass
David LaPell
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This is about as holster worn as a revolver can get. This Model 57 is very accurate and loves handloads. As was already said, if you want to shoot a .41 Magnum, reloading is the only way to go. The cost of the factory ammo is a bit high and you are not going to find it at your big box store. But once you get the bug, you won't want to go back. Don't worry about the finish, that won't make it shoot any better.
Geronimo Jim
Member
If you want to shoot and enjoy the gun just do it and don't worry. If you want a perfect gun to stay in the safe, send it back to Smith and have them refinish it.
