Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 57, .41 Magnum Target

Serial Number: N808737

Year of Manufacture: 1980-1982

Caliber: .41 Magnum, Recessed Chambers

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Hand Ejector Revolver

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, Pinned

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with a red insert, it is set on a ramped base integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a white-outlined flat top, square notch leaf in a base that is micrometer click adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth Goncalo Alves Target stocks with an extractor "football" cut and S&W medallions. The grips have minor handling wear with a few light marks and discoloration at some edges. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are a few tiny scratches and scuffs. The action shows light operational wear, mostly turn-wear on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Fine 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 standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This is a S&W Model 57 .41 Magnum Target revolver. It has a 8 3/8” barrel, nickel finish, adjustable target sights, target hammer, and nice Golcalo Alves target stocks. The .41 Rem. Mag. was conceived by Elmer Keith and was originally intended for hunting and law enforcement use. He envisioned two different loads: a hot load for hunting and a milder police load. When used with heavy hunting loads, the .41 Magnum offers a flatter trajectory than the .44 Magnum, and can nearly equal its muzzle energy, especially in the new loadings available from Cor-Bon and Buffalo Bore. The .41 Magnum never caught on to the same extent as the smaller .357 or larger .44 Magnum, making these revolvers more scarce than the Models 27 and 29. This particular example is in Fine condition retaining a great bore and strong mechanics. With its hammer-mounted firing pin, recessed chambers, and pinned barrel, they quite literally do not make them like this anymore. Its nickel finish is also a scarce find. This is a great find for the S&W collector or .41 Magnum fan. Please see our photos and good luck!