Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Astra-Unceta y Cia SA More Info

About the Gun

The 357 is a medium-to-large S&W-pattern DA/SA revolver with a six-shot swing-out cylinder, a transfer-bar lock, and adjustable sights. Standard guns are blued steel with checkered wood grips. It is Astra’s first Magnum-frame revolver, built heavier than the earlier Cadix line.

Production

Production ran from 1972 through 1988.

Market value

MSRP at production was around $350. Current used market value for examples in good to very good condition ranges $250–$400.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.357 Magnum
Alias:	.357 Smith & Wesson Magnum
More Info

Analysis

Astra introduced the 357 in 1972 after U.S. import rules stopped the lighter Cadix revolvers. The new gun added a transfer bar and a floating firing pin so Magnum-frame exports could resume. Barrel lengths were 3, 4, and 6 in at first; an 8.5 in barrel followed later. Stainless guns appeared in the early 1980s. The Model 960 is the same frame in .38 Special. The 44 and Terminator are later big-bore guns on a related pattern. The 357 Police is a separate fixed-sight service variant. Used 357s trade as Spanish S&W-pattern Magnums; parts are limited.