The first production firearms chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge, the Magnum set a new standard in firepower and accuracy. Each Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum was built to the specifications of the buyer, then registered by number to the owner by Douglas Wesson himself, the then Vice President of Smith & Wesson. This particular Magnum, number 5137, features a ramped blade front sight on a King ramp, and an adjustable square notch rear sight. Standard barrel and frame markings, and matching serial number on the butt, rear cylinder face and on the barrel shroud. The matching assembly number "43596" is marked on the frame and crane. All blue finish with casehardened humpback hammer and trigger, and fitted with checkered walnut Magna grips with silver S&W medallions. The accompanying factory letter verifies the barrel length, ramp front sight on a King base, square notch rear sight, blue finish, checkered walnut Magna grips and that is was shipped in a shipment of 250 to the Kansas City Police Department, Kansas City, Mo., Attn. Chief L.B. Reed on September 7, 1939. The letter also states that the revolver was sighted in at 25 yards with .357 Magnum ammunition using 6 o'clock hold and that the humpback hammer was added after it was originally shipped.

Very good. The revolver retains 80% period refinished blue finish with muzzle and high point wear, some areas thinning to a smooth gray patina and the cylinder is a mix of thin blue finish and smooth gray patina. The grips are also very good with a few minor nicks and crisp checkering. The markings are sharp. The action is excellent.