Classic 1973 Smith & Wesson Model 19-3 “Combat Magnum” – .357 Mag w/ Original Box
A true masterpiece of American firearms manufacturing, the Smith & Wesson Model 19—famously known as the “Combat Magnum”—was developed in collaboration with legendary Border Patrol agent and exhibition shooter Bill Jordan. Built on S&W’s versatile K-frame, it was designed to offer the perfect balance: the magnum power of a heavy N-frame revolver, but in a lighter, faster-handling, and more comfortable package.
This specific revolver is a highly desirable Model 19-3, manufactured in 1973. From an era widely considered the golden age of Smith & Wesson craftsmanship, this revolver proudly features the iconic “Pinned and Recessed” (P&R) construction—a pinned barrel and counter-bored cylinder chambers—which collectors highly covet. Featuring a 6-inch barrel that maximizes the ballistic capability of the .357 Magnum cartridge while offering an excellent sight radius, this complete-in-box revolver is a stunning addition to any serious wheel-gun collection.
Product Specifications
-
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson (Springfield, Massachusetts)
-
Model: 19-3 (Combat Magnum)
-
Year of Manufacture: 1973
-
Caliber: .357 Remington Magnum (Also safely chambers and fires .38 Special)
-
Action: Double-Action / Single-Action (DA/SA) Revolver
-
Capacity: 6 Rounds (Recessed cylinder chambers)
-
Barrel Length: 6 inches (Pinned barrel)
-
Sights: Fully adjustable micrometer click rear target sight paired with a ramped front sight.
-
Grips: Classic factory S&W checkered walnut target grips featuring silver S&W medallions.
-
Finish: Deep, high-polish factory carbon steel bluing with a color case-hardened hammer and trigger.
Condition Report
This vintage 1973 Model 19-3 is a gorgeous survivor, showcasing the legendary fit, finish, and quality control of mid-century Smith & Wesson. It remains in highly collectible, excellent overall condition.
-
Finish: Retains approximately 95%+ of its original, deep factory bluing. The bluing is incredibly rich and reflective. There is a very faint cylinder turn line from action cycling and only the slightest hint of silvering at the very tip of the muzzle from resting in a box or light handling. There is no rust, pitting, or flaking. The color case hardening on the target hammer and target trigger remains vibrant.
-
Bore: Excellent. The bore is mirror-bright with razor-sharp rifling, showing absolutely no signs of heavy use, lead fouling, or neglect.
-
Grips: The original checkered walnut target grips are in fantastic condition. The checkering remains sharp, the wood grain is rich, and the S&W medallions are bright. There are no cracks, chips, or major handling dings.
-
Mechanics: The legendary S&W action is flawless. The double-action pull is incredibly smooth and consistent, while the single-action break is “glass-rod” crisp. Cylinder lockup is rock solid with perfect timing.
Included Accessories
-
Original Packaging: Ships in its original, era-correct Bangor Punta-era Smith & Wesson two-piece blue cardboard box.
-
Paperwork/Tools: Includes the original S&W factory wax paper.
