Description
The Smith & Wesson Model 356TS&W Performance Center Prototype is more than a competition pistol—it’s a tangible piece of shooting history. Chambered in 356TSW, this one-of-a-kind Performance Center creation was specially built for renowned competitive shooter Judy Woolley and delivered on a memo account in July 1992, as confirmed by the included factory letter.
Designed for IPSC and USPSA competition, this prototype showcases the precision and innovation that made Smith & Wesson’s Performance Center a legend among shooters. It features a 5-inch match barrel with a dual-port compensator, delivering exceptional control and flat recoil impulse. The pistol retains 99% of its factory-blued and anodized finish, with a look that’s both purposeful and pristine.
Every element here speaks to hand-built craftsmanship. The slide-mounted safety was replaced with a checkered plug for faster manipulation, while the beavertail extension, hand-checkered front and backstraps, and squared trigger guard reflect Performance Center refinement at its finest. The extended mag release, large magazine funnel, and single-action trigger make it a competition shooter’s dream.
Mounted on the left side is a Tasco Propoint optic, sitting on a custom S&W Performance Center mount—factory-installed and fully functional. The checkered walnut grips remain in excellent condition, and the pistol comes with a 9mm-marked magazine with a CP Bullets bumper, adding to its provenance.
Though Woolley noted the 356TSW cartridge never reached its full competitive potential, this firearm remains a remarkable testament to her career and the Performance Center’s golden era of experimentation. With its low round count and complete documentation, this prototype represents a rare intersection of competition heritage, experimental design, and shooter legacy—a must-have for collectors who understand the value of provenance and performance.
