Difference in models 555 and 83?

[JerryKo]

I spoke with a FA rep and questioned the difference between the 555 and 83.  She said the are the same but in different years the stenciling was changed and it was called a 555.  I honestly do not know the difference.  So, could you guys help me clarify this.  Everybody wants an 83.  I never hear pep talks about the 555 tho.


JerryKo

[MarkH]

They are the same.  I believe FA has started calling all of its large framed guns the Model 83, rather than the 252, 353, 555, 757, etc.  Not sure exactly when the change took place, but the 555 is just a 50AE on the 83 frame and different lettering on the barrel.

[Ken ONeill]

That's correct. FA started making the change shortly after the turn of the century. No change other than the marking.

[JerryKo]

   Thanks guys.


JerryKo

[Bob Baker]

As stated, the Model 555 was a Model 83 chambered in .50AE.  In the early years we gave each chambering a different Model name.  Now we call all the large frames the Model 83 and all mid frames are the Model 97.