Dan Wesson Revolvers question - need info

Fabulous revolvers, i have two with the multi barrel kits. There is a forum dedicated to them.

Here's mine.... a Model 715 (stainless) w/ 4" barrel. I also have the 6" tube as well.

The new Dan Wesson revolvers ( the 715 ) are made by CZ. They do seem to be quite nice and follow the concept of interchangeable barrels and grips

CZ also still makes replacement parts and services the older revolvers

As I recall, there was a period during their manufacture when quality control slipped and those produced were a crap shoot when bought. Don't know the range, or even if that's a true statement.

My sons-in-law have had both the .357 Magnums in blue, and the .44 Magnum in stainless. The .44 Magnum is one tough hombre. And, as has been noted, accuracy is about as good as it gets from these.

One son-in-law experience a problem with his. A side plate screw came out during firing and allowed the side plate to loosen, This allowed the hand to fail to drive the cylinder into lock-up and fired out of register, splitting the barrel liner. DW repaired the gun at no charge.

Bob Wright

The older DW revolvers are exceptional IMO. CZ probably bought the business for the 1911 line, or brand. The new 715 is one I've handled, no thanks.

I have a recent 715 with 3 barrels. I find the gun to be smooth, accurate and well made. OTOH I never saw a pre CZ DW but I am happy with the one I have.

Had an original Pistol Pac years ago and found the design, performance, and overall quality of the gun to be amazing.

The accuracy and durability of the Monson-built Model 15 is a secret that a few in the know are not keeping anymore. I have a 15-2 with 2.5, 4, and 6 inch barrels, along with a variety of grips, that could easily serve as my only firearm, were I so inclined.

The older Dan Wessons were "usually" good but I've handled some that weren't. I'll probably buy the next .445 that I see that's in good shape for a fair price.

my 15v

My enthusiasm for .357s in a 2" bbl having pretty much waned, it's been wearing the 6" for the past few years. It's been a great revolver. very accurate

I've owned about a dozen DW revolvers over the years, .22/.357/.44/.445. Finally settled down to just 3:



Actually, I have one more stainless 715 that I'm slowly doing a high polish on.

Word is getting out about these beauties. Luckily, I found these before the word got out too much.

This is my DW Model 14 (non-adjustable sight)


this is my Model 15 (adjustable sight)


I also have a DW .22 (with the 4-inch and 2.5 inch barrels). It's seen some use, but works well.


I recently picked up a Model 715 (stainless version with adjustable sights)


I like 'em, but as some have mentioned, they are good, but different. The shorter action takes some getting used to and finding the cylinder latch (in front of the cylinder) adds to the gun's accuracy, but it also takes some getting used to being up there. They are heavier built than say, a S&W, and probably a nice in-between from a Ruger and a J-frame Smith. Just my .02.

I own a DW .357 interchangeable barrel.
This is an amazing revolver. Very accurate. I shoot a lot with it. Reliable and nice. I also have a python 6 inch.
I prefere the DW to the colt for competition shooting.

Dan Wesson Arms has gone through several owners in its lifetime. Some have produced outstanding firearms. Some cobbled together left over parts. CZ has started producing new Dan Wesson revolvers.

Check the fit and finish. If it is a Monson produced gun, I would not hesitate to purchase the gun if it is at a reasonable price.

I have owned several and still have a 22 and 357. Here are a couple of 25 yard targets with 357 magnum ammo.

anothernewb said:

It is a Monson one. lgs wants 550 for it. bluing looks good and is used but not abused.

Click to expand...

That price for a good Dan seems about right in today's market. But, as you seem new to revolvers, I suggest you first go to the Dan Wesson Forum and look at its checklist for evaluating a used Dan.

I might have to get in line for a new one if they start making something bigger than the .357.

The one

I have 2 1/2" and 6" barrels for my 357. The 2 1/2" is surprisingly accurate, and of course the 6" is also, as would be expected. It is the one I would keep if I had to get rid of the other 8 handguns I own.

robhof

I've owned DW's since 1970 and they break down like this: original gun was made in Monson, the best, first guns are always the best to promote the brand and quality was high, the company closed and was bought and reopened in Palmer Mas. and using the same machinery from the original factory, now old and worn, the quality was lacking some, quality control also suffered, some Palmer guns are very good, not as good as the Monsons, the last incarnation is Norwich NY and all new CNC machines, great quality, bought by CZ and priority placed on the autos which were selling well, they reintroduced a limited run of the revolver, much higher price and limited market.

Love my DW 15-2 6"

Picked mine up just before things went crazy, it was at my LGS and I managed to get it for $350. It was in great condition and it shoots exceptionally well, it is as accurate as my SW model 19.
It feels just a little heavier than the 19 but with the standard grips, it is a very comfortable .357 to shoot. It is one of those revolvers that it feels instinctive to shoot. It comes up in target especially fast and is usually right on the mark. In fact it might even be a little better than the 19 It isn't quite as pretty as the SW but these are an exceptionally well built revolver and mine gets a good workout about every couple months, usually a minimum of 100 rounds per session. so if you have chance to grab the DW go get it! You wont regret it.