Range Report: New Nickel M57

[ACP230]

Shot my new factory nickel four-inch M57 last night at the local university's indoor range.

I started shooting my reloads using a 230 SWC at about 900-950 fps. Powder was Unique and primers were Winchester LPs. The reloads were accurate and mild in the M57 although it's lighter than my six-inch blued .41 Mag, and my Ruger Redhawk .41s.
Started out at about 10 meters because I had no idea where the M57 was shooting. Turns out it was going left. I made some nice groups at that distance.

At 25 yards I didn't get a shot on the paper on the first target. Put a few on high by holding way right at that range later.

Back at 10 meters I ran five Cor-Bon 170 grain JHPs through the M57. I put four rounds into just over an inch at that range and pulled one down and left three inches. The Cor-Bon was louder than my reloads and had a bit more recoil. It wasn't bad though.

I shot a four-inch Smith .41 Magnum on the same range many years ago. It seemed very loud to me then. I guess I'm just more used to Magnums now.

I had some other ammo to test in .38s and ran out of time to make sight changes on the M57. I guess I'll have to go back soon.

I got several compliments on the gun's appearance. A friend shot it and had good things to say about the trigger too.

 

[steveno]

overall there are damn few revolvers better than a 4 inch "N" frame S & W. I have a 4 inch blue M-57 and it really shoots well

 

[ACP230]

I was looking over my M57 after I got it home from the gun store and the thought that came to mind was, "This is the perfect revolver!"

 

[norielX]

My M57 is the 8"er

But it holds a special place in my collection because it's the caliber as my Dad's Blackhawk that gave me my first taste of Magnum power. My 57 is what got me into reloading (well, .45 ACP did as well). I'd love to get a hold of a 4" 57. I got my 8"er on the cheap, around $250. glad you like your new gun. Time to start the fun part of load development!

 

[Fredhead]

'60's era model 57

Twice in the last 6 weeks I've had the pleasure of
shooting a buddy's model 57(nickel). We put 50 rds through
it on each occasion. He got it years ago from a relative in LE.
I have been internet searching for a 57 or 58 since without
much luck. What might one expect to pay?

 

[ACP230]

Prices vary from region to region. I've heard of some deals around $300, but most 57s seem to go for more.
One place to look is the Smith & Wesson Forum.
I found my nickel M57 there and .41s come up for sale on it from time to time.
I shouldn't mention this, but I'm temporarily out of the .41 market due to an attack of BHP lust.

 

[BigG]

That's what I'm talkin about!

You get yourself a nice N-frame Maggie in nickel and you have yourself one nice piece of machinery. Enjoy! You got the best!