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Looking for a .357 Magnum revolver? You're diving into history. The legend started in the 1930s with Elmer Keith and Philip B.
Wesson and Winchester made it together. They brought out the first gun for this kind of bullet: the Smith and Wesson Model 27. This was big news back then because it kicked off what we call "Magnum" times for handguns today—thanks to a term from Holland and Holland, but they used it here first!
So, if you want one, know that you're getting part of a story as old as your grandpa's tales, filled with power and legacy.
When you look at the.357 Magnum, know it's not just any round. It shines for those new to shooting because of its lower kick and noise than bigger rounds like the 44 Magnum. This makes a .357 revolver great for beginners or anyone looking to practice without breaking the bank on ammo costs.
Plus, if you're into making your own bullets, it's cost-effective and reliable performance-wise. In 1968, getting your hands on one was tough but worth the hunt, thanks to an eye-catching article about the Model 19 Combat Magnum. Elmer Keith spent time with heavy bullet loads in this Magnum and larger ones like the ones he developed.44 Special turned Magnum.
Each step showed how pushing limits could lead to impressive outcomes, like hunting big game successfully with these powerful handguns. So whether trekking solo on hunts or starting off firing rounds at targets, finding that perfect match—a sturdy yet comfortable-to-carry revolver—makes collecting unique pieces exciting.
The 357 Magnum's story starts with Phil Sharpe and Elmer Keith in the 1930s. They wanted a powerful round, more so than Colt's .38 Special or 9 mm Luger offered at that time. To outdo Colt's .38 Super, they teamed up with Smith and Wesson and Winchester.
The result was longer cases pushing bullets faster, far beyond what had been seen before. This made the .357 Magnum perfect for hunting big game and small critters alike. Law enforcement found its power useful, too, but it needed shorter barrels for ease of carry.
So, SandW made versions as short as 3.5 inches long, which police have liked a lot since then. Over the decades, shooters have tried various bullet weights in this cartridge, from very light ones at 90 grains to heavy ones nearing 200 grains, showing how flexible this ammo is.
When you look at a .357 Magnum revolver for sale, check its condition and value. Big things to see are the sights, how long the barrel is, and whether it can shoot well. Some have special parts or a history that make them worth more.
For example, guns famous people use in tests or ones made very early often cost a lot. A gun from before World War I with everything still with it could be rare. Also important is what it's made of—some finishes add to its value.
When collectors pick one of these guns, they think about all this and how unique each part is, like grips and sight types, which were picked when the gun was first bought. Each detail adds up, making some revolvers really stand out as treasures worth having in any collection.
Pay close attention when you're out there looking at .357 magnum revolvers. With people around, it's key to focus on your safety and theirs. Make sure the gun is always safe.
This is basic but vital. Before anything else, check how the revolver looks when ready to fire. Remember that most of these guns won't let you cycle through with an open cylinder without a trick or two involving pressing down on certain parts like the release mechanism.
Your next step involves something simple yet clever – using a dime to test the firing pin length safely while ensuring no mistakes happen during this process by keeping both the trigger and hammer under control. Here's why: The firing pin must stick out enough; consider matching it against a dime because that's roughly what industry standards suggest (between 050-.055 inches). If it doesn't reach or barely touches?
Better not take chances buying that one.
For collectors eyeing.357 Magnum revolvers, understanding what sets each model apart is key. Since 1957, Smith and Wesson have marked their revolvers with unique numbers, moving away from only naming them. This change helps you track down specific features and designs more simply.
Each revolver's details, such as ammo capacity, frame material (steel or lightweight alloy), sights type (fixed or adjustable), and finish (black or stainless steel), are vital for making an informed choice. When hunting for a collector's piece, consider whether the revolver handles +P ammo—important for both safety and functionality. Some models use Scandium in the alloy to reduce weight significantly; others opt for Titanium cylinders to cut down on heft without compromising strength.
Also, look into sight options: many old-school models sport fixed ramp-style front sights paired with gutter rear ones, while newer versions offer replaceable pinned front sights that work well with different shooting styles and needs. So whether it's choosing by frame size—J-frame being smaller with five rounds versus L frames, which hold six or seven—you know to pick out a gem. You can select from the.357 Magnums post-1955 production line-up based on detailed specifications tailored to your collecting criteria.
To keep your.357 Magnum revolver in top shape, always starts with safety. Make sure to point it safely away and check that nothing's blocking the barrel. Next, carefully remove the grip by using tools meant for guns so you don't accidentally send parts flying.
When taking out the hammer, support as directed to avoid mishaps. Pay extra attention if removing springs; they're tricky and can escape easily - trust me, catching them is hard! While disassembling further components like rebound slides or triggers, proceed with caution due to small internal springs which are tough to replace if lost.
Always remember: Before starting any maintenance on your firearm, engage safety checks, use correct tools, take pictures throughout the process for guidance, and follow step-by-step removal methods for specific parts without rushing. These steps prevent damage and ensure a smooth reassembly later on. This guide outlines essential care, but remember that each model has its nuances, so stay aware of these during maintenance routines.
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