What is a S&W model 1955

[fdashes]

I have a S&W model 1955 inheritated from my father acouple years ago. I know nothing about it and can't find it in the new Gun Digest. From the looks of it and the caliber .45ACP I would say its the same as a Model 29. Anyone know the story on a 1955?

 

[JDBoardman]

The Smith & Wesson Model of 1955 is a civilian version of the Model 1917, and the Brazilian Contract 1937. It is an N-Frame double-action 6-shot revolver chambered for the .45 ACP cartridge, usable with moon clips or with the .45 Auto-Rim . cartridge. It can be loaded with individual .45 ACP rounds, but they will not extract and must be individually removed from the cylinder by poking them out from the front. It is a high quality revolver, and its value ranges from $400 on up depending upon condition, finish and originality. Box and papers increase the value.

The Model 29 is chambered in .44 Magnum ("Do ya feel lucky, punk?")with somewhat different internals and a different barrel design.

The Model of 1955 is a fun gun to shoot, and is a very effective defensive caliber. Enjoy and treasure your family heirloom.

 

[fdashes]

Thank you..and I made a mistake,,,I meant like a model 25 not a model 29....sorry about that

 

[9mmepiphany]

It might be a bit more accurate to say that the Model 1950 was the civilian version of the 1917. The Model 1955 has the heavier barrel you now see on the Model 25

 

[Dframe]

The 1955 target IS a model 25. A 25-2 in fact. The model number and "Dash" should be stamped on the frame under the cylinder crane. The 25-2 was and IS a SUPERB shooter. Congratulations on you gun.

 

[Bullet Bob]

The model of 1955 .45 acp was labelled a model 25 when S&W started using model numbers in 1957. So there are "pre-25's", 25's, 25-1's, and so on. This is one of my favorite S&W's ever, and a joy to shoot. If you want to know approximately when yours was made, post the letter and numbers on the butt (some people like to substitute "x" for the last two numbers for privacy purposes).

The immediate precursor of the 1955 was the 1950 Target Model, which became the model 26 when S&W went to the numbering system. It had a lighter barrel than the 1955 Target.


The army model 1917 .45 acp did not have adjustable sights, no rib, and other differences. After WWII they were called Hand Ejector Model of 1950 Military (Also called 1950 Army) with the new shorter action; this model became the model 22 - scarce, as they weren't very popular

 

[Kp321]

I would have a panic attack if I saw a M-25 for $400 these days. I paid twice that for mine and thought I got a good deal.

 

[BYJO4]

The model 25 is an excellent revolver and has always been know for its accuracy. I know you will enjoy it.

 

[NapalmMan67]

Just bought one a couple months ago for $350.00. Talked the guy down from $400.00 because it's missing the cleaning rod and the felt is worn on the display case inside.

Super sweet shootin gun! I reload 45AR for it, can't stand moon clips...


.

 

[Jim K]

While revolvers chambered for the .45 ACP are again a bit of a fad, the original reason for a civilian version was that some target shooters wanted to fire the .45 matches with a revolver and those S&W's were perfect for that, having good trigger pulls and adjustable sights.

Jim

 

[BCRider]

So.... A 1917 will work WITHOUT the moon clips holding the .45ACP rounds together?

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

So.... A 1917 will work WITHOUT the moon clips holding the .45ACP rounds together?

You can load the cartridges (one at a time) and fire the gun just fine. They "headspace" on a shoulder in the chamber, so the clips aren't needed to hold them in place. But you will have to dig the fired cases out with your fingernails or use an object to poke them out through the front.

 

[fdashes]

Thanks everyone for the information. It is in factory new condition but no box or anything. It was given to me in a hunting sock, lolol. I guess I am going to have to take it out and try it. I have had it for 6 or 7 years and never used it. Now, I can't wait.