Smith & Wesson Model 657 .41 Magnum Target DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1987

SOLD FOR: $1,275.00

WOA#: WY240330SG002

Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 657

Serial Number: AVB9694

Year of Manufacture: 1987

Caliber: .41 Magnum

Action Type: 6 Shot, Single / Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out fluted Cylinder and Ejector.

Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”, the right is marked “41 MAGNUM”. The side plate is marked with the S&W monogram logo and the right of the frame is marked with the four-line marcas registradas address. The crane-cut is marked “AVB9694 / MOD 657” the crane is marked “X6313”.  The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number “AVB9694”. There are various proofs throughout.

Barrel Length: 4″ Bull Barrel

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with an orange insert pinned into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch with a white outline.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are a single piece checkered rubber Pachmayr with medallions on either side. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. There are handling marks throughout. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Stainless.

Finish Originality: Original.

Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are scattered nicks and faint scratches throughout. There is a faint turn line. The markings are clear, the screw heads are sharp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition. The top strap and top of barrel has a matte finish.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup shows very minimal side to side play in lockup. The double-action trigger is smooth and the single-action trigger is 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: The Smith & Wesson Model 657 is a robust and powerful revolver chambered in .41 Magnum, manufactured by the renowned American firearms company, Smith & Wesson. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Model 657 was specifically designed to harness the potent capabilities of the .41 Magnum cartridge, offering shooters a versatile handgun suitable for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. The Model 657 is built on Smith & Wesson’s large N-frame platform, providing a solid foundation to handle the recoil generated by the .41 Magnum cartridge. Its solid stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity, making it suitable for heavy use in various shooting environments. The .41 Magnum cartridge offers a potent combination of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications, including hunting medium-sized game, target shooting, and self-defense. While the .41 Magnum cartridge never achieved the widespread popularity of other revolver cartridges, such as the .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum, the Model 657 remains a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate its performance and versatility.

Overall the Smith & Wesson Model 657 .41 Magnum has left a lasting legacy in the firearms community, earning a reputation for its reliability, accuracy, and craftsmanship. While production of the Model 657 ceased in the late 1990s, it remains highly sought after by collectors and shooters who appreciate its classic design and performance. -R.E.