Sterling Arms X-Caliber .357 Magnum Single-Shot Target Pistol, 10-Inch Octagonal Barrel, Adjustable Sights, 1980s U.S.-Made
This Sterling Arms X-Caliber stands out as a U.S.-made, early-1980s single-shot target pistol with a 10-inch octagonal steel barrel and a two-tone blued/bright finish featuring polished in-the-white receiver side flats. Built in Lockport, New York, it features right-hand anatomical hardwood target furniture and adjustable iron sights. A top rib carries the adjustable rear sight, and the model’s relatively short production run adds collector interest.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are minor, superficial scratches and blemishes on exterior surfaces. Minor rust marks are visible on the front end of the barrel.
What’s Included
- Bonus Hard Case
The X-Caliber uses a single-shot, tip-up/tilting breech action with an extractor and an external hammer. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 1-round capacity, it is purpose-built for precise, deliberate shooting.
Its 10-inch octagonal blued-steel barrel and all-steel, two-tone blued/bright frame (blued topstrap and trigger guard with polished in-the-white receiver side flats) provide a solid, consistent platform. The adjustable rear notch on a ribbed base pairs with a ramped front blade for clear, precise sight alignment.
The right-hand anatomical hardwood target grip features deep finger grooves and a flared butt, complemented by a matching hardwood fore-end/hand-rest with a palm swell for a stable, repeatable hold.
The top rib supports the adjustable rear sight and includes drilled-and-tapped holes ahead of the rear sight for mounting a scope base or optic; the specific base pattern is not confirmed and appropriate hardware would be required. The pistol retains Sterling Arms, Lockport N.Y. markings on the barrel and frame.
Produced in the early 1980s, the X-Caliber line had a relatively short production run and was positioned as a U.S. alternative to the Thompson/Center Contender. This example reflects the model’s blend of American manufacture, target-focused ergonomics, and robust steel construction.