Smith & Wesson Model 657
Smith & Wesson · Pistol · In Production · 1986
Also known as: 657 Stainless, Model 57 Stainless
Overview
The Smith & Wesson Model 657 is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol chambered in .41 Remington Magnum, introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1986. The pistol features a stainless steel frame, providing a durable platform designed for years of reliable service in both duty and civilian applications. The 6.0-inch barrel maximizes the ballistic potential of the .41 Remington Magnum cartridge while providing a generous sight radius that enhances accuracy at all practical distances.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1361 g (48.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 1483 g (52.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 292 mm (11.50") |
| Barrel Length | 152 mm (5.98") |
| Height | 155 mm (6.10") |
| Width | 43 mm (1.69") |
| Sight Radius | 210 mm (8.27") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Trigger Pull | 44 N (9.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 393 m/s (1289 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1050 J (774 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 508 mm (20.00") |
| Number of Grooves | 5 |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Satin Stainless |
Calibers
- .41 Remington Magnum · primary — also known as .41 Rem Mag, .41 Magnum
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Block Safety, Cylinder Latch
- Features: N Frame, Adjustable Rear Sight, Black Blade Front Sight, Six Shot Cylinder, Walnut Grips, Target Hammer, Target Trigger
Service history
Operators
- Hunters and Sport Shooters
Production
Production years: 1986-present
Stainless steel version of Model 57
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The Model 657 represents the stainless steel evolution of the Model 57, which was introduced in 1964 for the then-new .41 Remington Magnum cartridge. The .41 Magnum was developed by Elmer Keith, Bill Jordan, and Remington as an ideal law enforcement cartridge - more powerful than the .357 Magnum but with less recoil than the .44 Magnum. However, law enforcement agencies largely passed on the .41 Magnum in favor of the more established .357 Magnum or increasingly popular semi-automatic pistols. The cartridge found its niche with hunters and outdoorsmen who appreciated its power and relatively manageable recoil. The loaded weight estimate includes six .41 Remington Magnum cartridges at approximately 20.4g each. Base specifications are for the 6-inch barrel model, which is the most popular configuration.
Background
The .41 Magnum was intended as the perfect law enforcement cartridge, but it found its true calling with hunters and outdoorsmen. The Model 657 gives shooters the power they need for medium game hunting in a platform that's easier to shoot accurately than a .44 Magnum.