Manufactured from 1955-1957, Smith & Wesson's .357 Combat Magnum, or "pre-Model 19" as it is often known as now, quickly became a favored sidearm of law enforcement. This example in particular was owned by a member of perhaps the most famous law enforcement agency in America, or the world for that matter, the Texas Rangers. The included copy of a Texas Department of Public Safety letter signed by "Jay" Banks states that this revolver, as well as another Combat Magnum in this auction, were carried by him on duty as a Texas Ranger from the mid-1950s until the end of his career. Given Banks' comments in another letter listing a pair of Colt Government Models, it is fairly clear that the ranger preferred these revolvers over the semi-automatics. In almost all of the available photographs of Banks, he is pictured with a dual holster rig and two revolvers. The letter lists this revolver and the other in this auction by serial number. The revolver has the standard Smith & Wesson markings, as well as matching serial numbers on the butt, in the ejector rod housing, and on the rear face of the cylinder. It is fitted with a ramped blade front sight, adjustable micrometer click rear sight, a wide serrated trigger shoe, and a pair of diamond pattern checkered walnut grips with Smith & Wesson medallions at the tops.

Fine, retains 90% plus of the period refinished blue with a few scattered patches of light surface pitting visible beneath the finish. The grips are very good with a few scattered minor edge chips and handling marks, otherwise crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Add this documented Texas Ranger duty weapon to your collection today!