Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: “The .357 Combat Magnum”, Pre-Model 19

Serial Number: K263298

Year of Manufacture: 1955

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: DA/SA Double Action & Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 4", Pinned

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade integral to a serrated, ramped base pinned to the barrel rib; the top of the barrel is serrated and matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is micrometer-click adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut target stocks with medallions, smooth diamonds, and an extractor ("football") cut. The grips have some light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original, numbered parts match.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 9+ out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 87% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges, more notable at the leading edges of the barrel and cylinder. The grip areas show handling wear. There are some minor nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Model 19 was introduced in 1955 and built on a K frame that was slightly larger in the yoke area and was initially offered only with a 4" barrel. The Model 19 was intended to be a "peace officers dream" and offered a heavy barreled four-inch K-Frame with a shrouded ejector rod and adjustable sights. In the '60s was this revolver offered with a 6" barrel and then in a more concealable 2 1/2" barrel configuration. The model was a major success and would go on to be used by the uniformed officers of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service and U.S. Border Patrol until they replaced them with .40 S&W semi-automatic pistols. This is a first year example with a blued finish, square butt grip frame, and 4" barrel. This is a perfect full-frame .357 with a 6-round capacity that will be a great target shooting revolver and nice addition to an S&W collection missing a Pre-19! Please see our photos and good luck!