Make: Coonan Arms Inc.

Model: B Cadet

Serial Number: C2138

Year of Manufacture: 1992-1998 / ATF Classification: Modern

Caliber/Gauge: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Semi-automatic, single action, detachable magazine

Barrel Length: 4" ported bull profile

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a post with an orange face fixed at the muzzle. The rear sight is a square-notch dovetailed into the barrel.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood. The panels have only faint handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Stainless

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: The stainless finish rates at about 98% with faint handling marks on the front and back straps as well as the top of the slide. The markings are clear and complete. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. Overall, this firearm rates in Fine Plus condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Two 6rd magazines, takedown tool, manual, serial matching box, and a COA from the John Taffin Collection

Our Assessment: This Coonan Arms Inc. Model B Cadet, from John Taffin’s personal collection, is a unique semi-automatic pistol chambered in .357 Magnum. Produced by Coonan Arms Inc., the Model B Cadet was engineered to combine the ergonomics and manual of arms of the Model 1911 with the power of the .357 Magnum cartridge. Designed by Dan Coonan, these pistols earned a loyal following for their innovative design, robust construction, and ability to reliably fire full-power revolver ammunition from a magazine-fed semi-automatic platform. Production numbers were comparatively limited, making Coonan pistols increasingly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.

Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 4 inch ported barrel, this compact model offers reduced muzzle rise and improved controllability while retaining the impressive ballistic performance of the .357 Magnum cartridge. The familiar single-action operation and 1911-style controls provide excellent handling characteristics for shooters accustomed to that platform. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition with strong rifling. The action functions correctly.

The grips rate in Fine condition with only light handling wear. The stainless finish rates at approximately 98%, exhibiting very light signs of use while maintaining an outstanding overall appearance. Included are two 6-round magazines, the factory takedown tool, owner's manual, and the serial-matching factory box. Overall, this firearm rates in Fine Plus condition and represents an outstanding example of the Coonan Model B Cadet, a scarce and innovative pistol that successfully combines classic 1911 ergonomics with the power of the .357 Magnum cartridge. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!