Pre-27 blue 3-1/2"

[992B]

Today at a local gun show I looked at a blue Pre-27 with the 3-1/2" barrel. It was a 5 screw version in the 160,000 range. The gun was mechanically excellent but blue was badly worn. I'd estimate the bluing at 60%. No pitting or gouges in the metal and the diamond magna grips were numbered to the gun and showed little wear. Probably the gun was carried with some oversize aftermarket grips.

Supposedly it was carried by a local police chief from the mid 50's to his retirement in the 70's. The asking price was $700 with no room for negotiating. If I was sure S&W would refinish the gun I would have bought it.

I may regret not buying it but would rather pay more for a higher condition gun even though my intentions are to shoot any gun I buy. Oh well. Did I make the wrong decision??
Gary

[delta-419]

I saw a pre-27 as you discribe at a Mobile AL gun show a few weeks ago. It was kind of beat up gun, renickeled. Some of the screws were buggered, part of the rear sight was nickeled and it belonged to a retired deputy on consignment to the vender, the reason for the "NO Wiggle Room" price. I offered $500 for it but passed on $700. I believe it also had the wrong grips. To me, not worth $700.The guns are in much demand but not in just any condition.

[moosedog]

I think you made the right decision. That price to me is high for what you described. If you wouldn't be happy with a 60% gun, I'll bet you would be even less happy with it reblued for several hundred dollars more.
They are desirable but not that hard to find.

[gunnut44]

Too much for the condition you describe. Who really cares that a cop owned it alot of cops own S&W's and used them for work.

[wraco]

Gary, I think you were wise to pass and hold out for one in better condition. .

Rod

[crofoot629]

Condition is everything and S&W will not refinish to the period correct blue.

Emory