POTD: A Gentleman’s Hand Cannon – The Smith & Wesson Model 57
Sam.S 01.05.24
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Debuting in 1964, the Smith & Wesson large-frame Model 57 revolver answered the call by pioneering gun writers like Elmer Keith to fill the ballistic gap between .357 and .44 Magnums. Chambering Remington’s hot new .41 Magnum cartridge, the 6-shot Model 57 packed robust firepower in a fashionable full-sized frame with iconic S&W polish. Offering steady velocity over 1300fps with hunting loads or knockdown authority in self-defense, its impressive trajectory and accuracy allowed the Model 57 to tackle everything from whitetail to grizzlies while recoiling less than a bruising .44. Though failure to catch on as a police sidearm and being overshadowed by dirty Harry’s iconic Model 29 dampened public interest, a loyal following of distinguished handgunners kept the gentlemanly Model 57’s reputation intact even as competitors encroached on its niche. History repeated itself when Smith & Wesson revived this distinctive classic as the 57 Classic, ensuring new collectors could experience the same blend of sophistication and substance rifle connoisseur Elmer Keith himself prescribed over a half-century ago.
“Manufacturer: Smith & WessonModel: 57Type: RevolverGauge: 41 MagnumBarrel: 8 3/8 inch solid ribFinish: nickel”
Lot 1020: Smith & Wesson Model 57 Double Action Revolver with Case. (n.d.-a). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved January 4, 2024, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1044/1020/smith-wesson-model-57-double-action-revolver-with-case.
