S&W model 57 value

[MassMan]

A friend's brother has a S&W model 57-5 Mountain gun NIB (never fired) he wants to sell. He is a long gun guy and is thinning his herd of handguns. I asked what he wanted and he told me to make an offer. I have no idea what this model is worth as I can't seem to find much info on it. He claims it is a limited production gun. I don't need another caliber in the fold but as I don't have a 57 I am tempted. Can someone give me a rough value so I know what a fair price would be. Thanks.

 

[RickMD]

The current online Blue Book of Gun Values lists models with an "N" serial number prefix at $750 in 100% condition. The "S" prefix is $1800 in 100% condition. Also add 10% for a nickel finish, 5% for the 8 3/8 " barrel, and 10% for a pinned barrel and recessed cylinder. There were six engineering changes on the 57's over the years.

The currently manufactured 57 Classic is $775 in new in the box condition. Hope this helps.

 

[22-rimfire]

I have one. I paid $580 (including tax) new in 2005. It was not a bargain at the time. So I think $600 > $650 is a very fair price today and one I'd pay if I were looking for another M57. Regular M57's can sell for much more.

I got hooked on 41 mag Smiths about 20 years ago. I have steadily been buying one here and there since. I think they are excellent revolvers, even with the lock. I have had no problems with the lock activating from recoil. The 4" M57 Mountain Gun is my go to woods gun when I want something "bigger" than a 22 to carry on my belt. The 41 mag is a fantastic caliber that you begin to appreciate it only after shooting it awhile. Yeah, ammo is hard to find. So, it depends on how much you might actually shoot it if that is a serious concern. Price? You can get good loads from GA Arms, Bitterroot Valley, and now I see HSM is loading 41 mags. HSM and Bitterroot Valley may in fact be the same company? Of course, you can load your own quite nicely as well.

 

[MassMan]

Gentlemen,
Thank you for your input. I had checked a few sources but wanted "real world" opinions for what this gun would sell for. I can't find any values for the mod. 57 Mt. Gun. 22-rimfire, are you saying the Mt. Gun version of the Mod 57 is valued lower than the regular version of the gun? I was told this model was made in lower numbers than the regular version.

Again, thanks for your replies.

 

[Action_Can_Do]

When you say "regular" version of the 57, you have to specify whether you mean a current production gun from the classic series, or a 57 from 20 years ago. Prices are all over the place. I doubt that you could get more than $600 for it. There are too many "lightly used" model 57s out there that go for less. But the prices of the area you live in might be quite different than where I live. Hope that helps.

 

[22-rimfire]

The older model 57's (pre-lock) frequently sell for a premium. For me the price offered depends on your relationship with the owner. If it were a friend, I'd probably pay on the higher end of things and if it is truly nice, perhaps lean toward the $750 number, but I would not pay retail for one. Check GunBroker auction sales (closed auctions). I have not checked current selling price and I'm assuming the $775 number is about right for that.

 

[philoe]

Bud's was doing a closeout for S&W on this very model in January. I bought one for $610 shipped. Local FFL checked his distributor and couldn't get it under $725. They will pop up on Gunbroker now around $700 and sell around that. $600 sounds fair. I would start @ $500 though.

 

[MassMan]

Thank you again gentlemen. When I said the "regular" model, I meant the current "Classic" line of 57's vs the 57-5 Mt. Gun reintroduced in 2005. Sorry for my lack of clarity. Does the Mt. Gun carry any extra value since it was considered "limited"?

 

[RickMD]

MassMan: Unfortunately, S&W as well as just about every other firearms manufacturer sells "limited edition" models from time to time. The only enhanced value that they might have would be to a collector. Most never become "collectable" and the current crop of S&W classics are not highly prized collectors items. Good shooters, yes. Collectables, no.

As an example look at the many "Ducks Unlimited", and "Dale Earnhart" models by all the shotgun manufacturers. They bring little more and, in many cases, less than the standard, vanilla model on the used market. Now if it was a gold, engraved, Colt Peacemaker made by the Colt custom shop and presented to John Wayne on his 70th birthday, that's a different matter...

 

[philoe]

The mountain gun has appeal to outdoorsmen and others who usually are attracted to the tapered barrel (lighter for carry) and the plain black sights. The Mountain Gun etching is not roll stamped on the barrel,so it will wear off in time with carry/use.

If I were looking for an investment I would find a pre lock 57. The newer 57's are shooters IMO.

You should not pay a premium for Mountain Gun lasered on the side. You are in an enviable position where someone has a new N frame chambered in a pricey caliber and they want to sell. Start @ $500. Good luck!!