Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: The .357 Magnum, Pre-Model 27
Serial Number: S138650
Year of Manufacture: 1954-1955 / C&R
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 3 1/2”, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped serrated blade integral to a ramped base pinned to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an S&W micrometer click square notch adjustable for windage and elevation. The barrel rib, ramp, rear sight tang and the topstrap are finely checkered to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut magna stocks with smooth diamonds and medallions. There are some scattered light handling marks. There are a few scattered light marks. The checkering is crisp with light peak wear. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition. The number inside the right grip does not match the serial.
Type of Finish: Blue, Case Color hammer and trigger.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 85% of its metal finish. The frame, barrel, cylinder, yoke, ejector all have matching serial numbers. There is finish wear on the edges. There are a few spots of oxidation, most noticeable on the left side of the front sight base. There are some scattered little marks through the finish and scuffs which have lightly thinned the finish. There are some scattered draglines and a couple of faint hairline scratches. The cylinder has a turn line. The markings are clear. The screwheads are sharp to lightly used. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup produces light side-to-side play on each chamber with the trigger depressed. The double action trigger is smooth, the single action crisp. 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 Smith & Wesson double action revolver made in 1954. When first introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1935 it was known as the Registered Magnum and in 1939 Smith & Wesson changed the name to “The .357 Magnum”, and later the Model 27. It was noted for its durability and reliability and has been a favorite of shooters since its inception. The 3 ½” barrel length was extremely popular with FBI agents from the 1940s to the 1960s. General George Patton carried an ivory handled Registered Magnum with a 3 ½” barrel (along with his ivory handled Colt Peacemaker) Patton called the Model 27 his “killing gun”. This 3 1/2? Pre-27 revolver is in Very Good condition with some scattered light wear. This Pre-Model 27 revolver should be a hit with the collectors. If it gets past the collectors, some lucky shooter will get a chance at one of the strongest double-action .357 Magnum revolvers ever made, built on S&W’s N frame, also used for the .44 Magnum.
