Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 3-Screw PINNED Barrel SWING-OUT Cylinder Hand Ejectors WITH Model Numbers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 09-25-2011, 08:03 PM
paskiedog paskiedog is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default 28-2 vs colt trooper

hello all....between these 2 firearms what would be the most desireable in reguards to shooting and overall value....being both were in the same condition....thanks....
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 09-25-2011, 08:16 PM
PH-2's Avatar
PH-2 PH-2 is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Twangtown
Posts: 585
Likes: 80
Liked 200 Times in 67 Posts
Default





The original 38 trooper will fetch more money, it has the same lockwork as the later Python and is buttery-smooth.

The 28-2 will approach that smoothness over time/shooting, but is more commonly encountered.

The 28 is easier to service, parts are easily available, while the Colt requires the ever more hard-to-find gunsmith with experience, there-in. Parts are more difficult to find.

For a shooter, the 28 is a better, over-all, choice (practically speaking).

I love both - Embrace Diversity!

Mike
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 09-25-2011, 08:50 PM
Muley Gil Muley Gil is offline
US Veteran
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: The SW Va Blue Ridge
Posts: 17,474
Likes: 88,978
Liked 24,784 Times in 8,482 Posts
Default

If you are discussing the M28 vs the Colt Mk III Trooper, the S&W is the better gun, hands down. The Mk III has a coil mainspring action that was designed to eliminate the hand fitting of the older V mainspring action, as found in the Python.
__________________
John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 09-25-2011, 09:11 PM
traub traub is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Northridge, California
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
Liked 10 Times in 4 Posts
Default

Some additional technical info regarding the Colt Trooper and the S&W 28.

The Colt has a 1 in 14 left hand twist, and the S&W has a 1 in 18 3/4 right hand twist.

I'm not sure, however, the thinking may be that most shooters are right handed, and the torque of the right hand twist would tend to twist the gun into the hand, and the torque of the left hand twist would tend to torque the barrel in the direction that it is screwed into the frame.

The vintage Colt Trooper is essentially a Python with a 4 inch round barrel.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 09-25-2011, 09:13 PM
Engine49guy's Avatar
Engine49guy Engine49guy is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: May 2009
Location: South Florida
Posts: 7,770
Likes: 2,470
Liked 8,296 Times in 2,908 Posts
Default

Both cost about the same in my neck of the woods but if forced to choose between the two I would choose the Model 28 first mostly because I prefer the feel of the big N frame Smith .

Last edited by Engine49guy; 09-25-2011 at 11:00 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #6  
Old 09-27-2011, 01:07 AM
bigun bigun is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 226
Likes: 0
Liked 237 Times in 21 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Muley Gil View Post
If you are discussing the M28 vs the Colt Mk III Trooper, the S&W is the better gun, hands down. The Mk III has a coil mainspring action that was designed to eliminate the hand fitting of the older V mainspring action, as found in the Python.
No, the above Trooper is the older Trooper-not the Colt MK III Trooper. In fact, with those fully checkered Colt target stocks that Trooper has to be from 1960 and older-because, these target stocks were last originally installed in 1960 production.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 09-27-2011, 01:51 AM
armsmaster270's Avatar
armsmaster270 armsmaster270 is offline
US Veteran
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: California
Posts: 168
Likes: 2
Liked 16 Times in 13 Posts
Default

Agree that is a Trooper not a Trooper MKIII I had a Trooper MKIII that I had to sell during hard times. Loved that revolver Although I am a Smith & Sig man I would take the MKIII.
__________________
20 years Mil, 18 yrs Sac P.D.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 09-27-2011, 03:37 AM
OldW's Avatar
OldW OldW is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Warshington
Posts: 106
Likes: 4
Liked 2 Times in 1 Post
Default

Just on looks alone, I would have to go with the 28-2. It's just a burly handgun. Love it!


Besides, what do you expect to hear on this forum?
__________________
The only verdict is vengeance
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 09-27-2011, 05:28 AM
Revolver-time Revolver-time is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Savannah, Ga.
Posts: 412
Likes: 30
Liked 109 Times in 54 Posts
Default

I had a Colt Trooper and a MKIII. I still have my 28.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 09-27-2011, 05:59 AM
Sportsterguy's Avatar
Sportsterguy Sportsterguy is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Ask the NSA
Posts: 2,208
Likes: 111
Liked 119 Times in 73 Posts
Default

My vote goes to the 28.
__________________
V/R
Roger / SG
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 09-27-2011, 08:33 AM
Art Doc's Avatar
Art Doc Art Doc is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: The kidney of Dixie.
Posts: 10,509
Likes: 49
Liked 13,409 Times in 3,290 Posts
Default

The two are nearly identical in form and function. As for value, Colts seem to be rising faster than Smiths. The Troopers were under-valued for a long time and I made several killer deals a few years ago but now they are catching up.

PS: The full coverage checkered stocks on PH-2's Trooper are now fetching close to what S&W "Cokes" will bring so add that to the value if a Colt is wearing them.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 09-27-2011, 01:20 PM
feralmerril feralmerril is offline
Absent Comrade
 
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: utah
Posts: 13,063
Likes: 2,547
Liked 7,201 Times in 3,064 Posts
Default

I have owned a variety of the old model troopers and HP`s and the fancier 357`s and 27s also own several pythons. Here is my take. For actualy packing and shooting I will take a old model colt trooper or "357" in 4". Yes, I know the reputation of going out of time faster and the story that it`s harder to find a good man to work on them. That said, you cant prove it by me! I dont need to put thousands of rounds a year through them to start with. I even like them BETTER in the real world of carrying them over a 4" python. I dont feel comfortable packing my exspendsive pythons in the dust on the trails where I pack. I find the troopers as accurate and lighter and less bulky. A model 19 or 66 is also good and a more even comparason to the trooper than the model 28 or 27 that I feel is more overbuilt than nessasary to pack. I mostly carried a 357 trooper or offical police for 35 years on my job about 65 hours a week and I also had ruger speed six`s and S&W 586`s avaiable to me at the same time. Thats just me.





Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 09-27-2011, 01:30 PM
feralmerril feralmerril is offline
Absent Comrade
 
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: utah
Posts: 13,063
Likes: 2,547
Liked 7,201 Times in 3,064 Posts
Default

Here are a couple more of my belt guns. Oddly, lately it seems I carry the old M&P the most. It may be it is light, will do the job and is cheaper to scuff up and get dusty.







Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 09-27-2011, 01:43 PM
GyMac GyMac is offline
US Veteran
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: SW Washington
Posts: 1,107
Likes: 616
Liked 288 Times in 168 Posts
Default

Feralmerril, those are absolutely beautiful stag grips on your Model 10.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 09-27-2011, 02:05 PM
feralmerril feralmerril is offline
Absent Comrade
 
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: utah
Posts: 13,063
Likes: 2,547
Liked 7,201 Times in 3,064 Posts
Default

Thanks. I cant even remember how or where I got them. Probley 40 years ago. I have two more stashed, one needs minor work on the screw hole, the other on those metal half moon inserts. It broke off. Think they were made by ajax. When I collected in the 70s they werent a fraction of the cost of now. Think I have 5 or so various pairs on guns and in drawers. Actualy that model 10 aint a model 10. It`s a old M&P from about 1953 to 1955. Bought it about 5 years ago for $280s. Some woman said it was her policeman fathers. It had goodyears on it and looked almost unfired. Just lately I come to appriciate it more and usualy take it on quad rides. It`s light, accurate, and a sweetheart to pack.

Last edited by feralmerril; 09-27-2011 at 02:13 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 09-28-2011, 10:03 PM
b.guggenmos b.guggenmos is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2007
Posts: 333
Likes: 667
Liked 275 Times in 79 Posts
Default

I have a 27-2, 29-2 and a Trooper Mark III. The Colt is butter smooth in both the action and the trigger pull. I am a SW guy but the Colt is staying with me. Whenever I let someone shoot the Colt I usually get a "WOW". Brian
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 09-28-2011, 10:13 PM
KJM KJM is offline
Banned
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2011
Posts: 649
Likes: 351
Liked 174 Times in 107 Posts
Default

I like the Larger 28.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 09-29-2011, 01:47 PM
Andy Taylor Andy Taylor is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Colorado Rocky Mountains
Posts: 1,369
Likes: 631
Liked 109 Times in 52 Posts
Default

This is a S&W forum so I bet most here would say the M28. Ask over on the Colt forum and I bet you get different answers.

Odd that you are so specific on the M28-2 and only say Trooper as there is much more variation in Trooper, Trooper .357, Trooper MKIII and Trooper MKV models than in HP, 28, 28-2, 28-3 models.

My personal opinion is, considering condition etc are equal, I would take a Trooper or a Trooper .357 over any version of the M28. I would take a M28(any version) over a Trooper MKIII or Trooper MKV.

The M28s are just to big for the cartridge, IMHO. The MKIII, and MKV Troopers have aways displayed triggers that were way to heavy and gritty for my tastes.

That said, a S&W will be easier/cheaper to get parts/service for if anything goes wrong than any Colt will.
__________________
Formerly know as Lucky Derby
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 09-29-2011, 01:53 PM
jimmyj's Avatar
jimmyj jimmyj is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: May 2003
Location: DUNNELLON, FLORIDA USA
Posts: 11,102
Likes: 1,690
Liked 16,302 Times in 4,231 Posts
Default

Colt Trooper!
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 09-29-2011, 02:20 PM
vl5150's Avatar
vl5150 vl5150 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
Liked 12 Times in 7 Posts
Default

My take after owning both a 27 and a Trooper MK III--

For a collector- Who cares, you're going to by both anyway at some point.

For home defense- Either will be fine. Colt is smaller and lighter. If you miss with 6 shots, throwing the M28 at the bad guy would be the 7th shot and most lethal.

As a .38 shooter- Either will be fine.

As a .357 shooter- Pick the N frame. My Colt MKIII is mint, but the frame is stretched a bit and it's out of spec on endshake. Special machinery is needed to correct this in Colts so it's a trip back to CT or to Pittsburgh Handgun Headquarters.

Last edited by vl5150; 09-29-2011 at 02:23 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 09-29-2011, 02:25 PM
TSQUARED TSQUARED is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Michigan, USA
Posts: 2,260
Likes: 2
Liked 114 Times in 84 Posts
Default

Both the S&W 28 and Colt trooper are excellent revolvers.
The Colt is a smaller frame which was originally designed for a 41 cal. cartridge while the larger S&W N-frame was designed for a 44 cal. cartridge.
If you plan to only shoot in the SA mode then eiyther will provide you with excellent accuracy. If you plan to do any DA shooting then I would opt for the S&W which is also much easier to tune for a lighter DA trigger pull than the Colt.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 09-29-2011, 03:22 PM
snake charmer snake charmer is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 153
Likes: 0
Liked 5 Times in 5 Posts
Default

I own many of both, but prefere the Colts.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 09-29-2011, 05:06 PM
TSQUARED TSQUARED is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Michigan, USA
Posts: 2,260
Likes: 2
Liked 114 Times in 84 Posts
Default

When revolvers rued the roost in buleye CF and 45 stages during the late 1950's and through the early 1960's in northern NJ the Colt's appeared to be favored for their SA triggers. Personally I could not see the difference in accuracy but the local gunsmith made some wonderful ultra short action Colt's which ruled in that locale for some time.
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 09-29-2011, 05:23 PM
BLACKHAWKNJ BLACKHAWKNJ is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 5,762
Likes: 1,224
Liked 5,805 Times in 2,355 Posts
Default

Tough call. I just got my 2nd .357 Trooper, if I see another M-28 at a good price I will get-I suppose my nickeled 4" M-27 could "pass" for an M-28. I would go for the Trooper, been out of production longer (1968 vs. 1986), the Trooper is one of the Great Underappreciated revolvers IMHO.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 09-29-2011, 06:24 PM
PH-2's Avatar
PH-2 PH-2 is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Twangtown
Posts: 585
Likes: 80
Liked 200 Times in 67 Posts
Default

Since somebody mentioned it, and this has become quite the lively thread:



...my only other Trooper iteration, a Mk III.

Mike
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #26  
Old 09-29-2011, 06:37 PM
Stophel's Avatar
Stophel Stophel is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Back in Kentucky!!!
Posts: 465
Likes: 347
Liked 122 Times in 49 Posts
Default

I've never even seen a Trooper! Not too common around here, Colts of any kind seem fairly rare. I always thought Colt's looked kinda generic and "unfinished" with the ejector rod just hangin' out there loose under the barrel..

I did recently see at a pawn shop a Lawman Mk III. Had a 2 1/2" (?) barrel and "service" type grips. Fixed sights too, which, I guess is what made it the Lawman rather than the Trooper. I LIKED that gun! The handle was MUCH better than the typical S&W service type grip, which I always found way too skinny at the top (and too fat at the bottom!). BUT, it had screwdriver pry marks on the edge of the cylinder and one or two other places. And though it worked and cycled fine, that kind of thing always freaks me out, so I passed on it.

Last edited by Stophel; 09-29-2011 at 07:53 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 09-29-2011, 06:56 PM
MakeMyNight's Avatar
MakeMyNight MakeMyNight is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: SW Florida
Posts: 421
Likes: 137
Liked 168 Times in 50 Posts
Default

The Model 28 Smith has a larger frame than a Colt Trooper or Trooper Mark III & Mark V.

Older Troopers using the V spring action are buttery smooth (DA), though Smith's single leaf DA action is shorter, plus Smith's SA firing mode is superior to the Colt (quicker lock time).

Another area to look at is the cylinder lock-up, ie, S&W cylinders are secured both fore and aft, Colts typically are secured at the rear of the cylinder, only.

Hands down, the Smith model 28 is a stronger, heavier duty revolver.

I collect Colts and Smiths, and each revolver bears unique mechanical features, making either desirable to own.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 10-14-2011, 12:33 AM
bobbyjack bobbyjack is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Norman Oklahoma
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
Liked 4 Times in 2 Posts
Default

I know this is an old thread ,but the original Colt Trooper was in 38spc.

In the same time era they made the Colt 357 Mag,and thats just the

way it was roll stamped. It was so popular that Colt lenghtend the

barell and put there best finnish on it and called it the Python.

The Colt Trooper even in it's best or latest version would never be

worth as much as the Colt 357 Mag.

For collectability the Colt 357 Mag would be worth more,but about the

same as an early Smith Reg Magnum.

I would rather have a Mod 27,Reg Mag,or a Mod 28.

JMO Bob
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 10-16-2011, 03:50 AM
hemiram hemiram is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Toledo, Ohio
Posts: 741
Likes: 604
Liked 853 Times in 384 Posts
Default

The 28. Never been a big Colt fan. I like the looks of the S&W guns a lot better than the non Python Colts.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 10-16-2011, 03:19 PM
DFrame DFrame is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: central Illinois
Posts: 391
Likes: 16
Liked 190 Times in 113 Posts
Default

The trooper mark III is a much closer gun to the Model 28 with it's later more "Smith like" action. It doesn't have the more finely fitted action that the earlier trooper (and 357) did and is seldom as smooth. Neither feels a bulky to me as the 28 does.
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 10-21-2011, 10:46 AM
CAJUNLAWYER's Avatar
CAJUNLAWYER CAJUNLAWYER is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: On da Bayou Teche
Posts: 18,410
Likes: 18,442
Liked 58,603 Times in 9,624 Posts
Default

If the Trooper is not a MkIII or Mk V and you decide on not buying it-please let me know where it is as I would be interested in it.
__________________
Forum consigliere
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 10-21-2011, 02:00 PM
BLACKHAWKNJ BLACKHAWKNJ is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 5,762
Likes: 1,224
Liked 5,805 Times in 2,355 Posts
Default

Actually I would compare the Trooper, both the Old Model and the Marks III and V to the S&W L frame. It was to compete with the Python-which uses the Trooper's frame- that S&W developed the L frame.
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 10-22-2011, 04:33 PM
Bongos17150 Bongos17150 is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I have the Trooper III and I like it but not as much as my smiths, the double action as well as the single action seems gritty and not as smooth as the S&W. The Blueing on the Colt is a much darker deep blue than Smith.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 10-22-2011, 04:55 PM
Colhogan Colhogan is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: East Providence RI USA
Posts: 50
Likes: 8
Liked 11 Times in 6 Posts
Red face

Being a S&W guy, I'd have to say that I'd rather have a Model 28. They are seriously over-built,and one could hardly ask for more in a revolver.
That being said, there is nothing wrong with owning some of the older Colts'.
I remember years ago,I owned a Colt Officers Model Target in 38 Spl,made in 1906.
The action was smooth as glass.The groups I shot with it were amazingly tight..
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 10-22-2011, 07:37 PM
Snapping Twig's Avatar
Snapping Twig Snapping Twig is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: S.F. Bay Area
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 527
Liked 3,813 Times in 1,243 Posts
Default

I have this old thing.



I believe it to be a 1955 model.

That said, I don't shoot 38Spl much, but it is nice and has that Python action. Thing is, I don't know where to send it to get serviced, so I don't use it really.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #36  
Old 10-18-2013, 07:43 AM
Vom Brunhaus K9 Vom Brunhaus K9 is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Penna.
Posts: 151
Likes: 6
Liked 43 Times in 36 Posts
Default

I own both and I lean to the Model 28 for weight and accuracy, both are with 4 inch barrels.
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 10-18-2013, 09:11 AM
L Pete L Pete is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 665
Likes: 16
Liked 383 Times in 213 Posts
Default

If it's a later Trooper, no thanks......They weren't the greatest revolvers Colt ever made, by any stretch.....

I would prefer the 28.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #38  
Old 10-18-2013, 11:03 AM
BlackAgnes's Avatar
BlackAgnes BlackAgnes is offline
US Veteran
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: New York
Posts: 1,327
Likes: 4
Liked 3,795 Times in 458 Posts
Default

I have both--in fact besides the .357 Trooper (old model, of course!), I have a couple of .22 Troopers from the 50s. All are very nice guns.

However, should they need service, good luck finding a pistolsmith who understands the arcane, symbiotic ballet that is the old Colt action. The S&W Model 28--you can probably fix it yourself if something goes wrong.

Also, should you decide on the fine Trooper, invest in a new mainspring--you can change it out yourself--these lose power over time and sometimes result in light strikes.

Also, be aware that Colts lock up just as the trigger is pulled all the way back--don't assume a timing problem just because the cylinder doesn't lock when operated slowly.

If I had to choose, I'd go with the Model 28, but either will serve you well and the Trooper is a bit lighter and smaller.

As for the Mk. III- Mk. V Troopers--not a fan. I know they can be reliable guns, but I've had them apart and they simply don't compare (in my opinion) to the lockwork in either the old model Trooper or the Model 28.
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 10-18-2013, 11:16 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,948 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

No contest - the Trooper .357 or the ".357" (basically the same except for finish quality) are preferable any day to the clunky 28. The full-checkered Type I Colt target grips alone will bring $500 easy, and perhaps double that in excellent condition. I have used a ca. 1960 Colt .357 extensively for over 20 years. The only repair ever required was a hammer V-spring replacement (see previous posting). Springs are cheap and is a simple DIY job for anyone. Of all my revolvers, the .357 is the last one I would part with. The market must feel the same. Cheap Troopers are rare. Cheap .357s don't exist.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #40  
Old 10-18-2013, 12:13 PM
mkk41 mkk41 is offline
Banned
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: South East , PA . USA
Posts: 5,027
Likes: 485
Liked 1,610 Times in 884 Posts
Talking

Quote:
Originally Posted by DWalt View Post
No contest - the Trooper .357 or the ".357" (basically the same except for finish quality) are preferable any day to the clunky 28. The full-checkered Type I Colt target grips alone will bring $500 easy, and perhaps double that in excellent condition. I have used a ca. 1960 Colt .357 extensively for over 20 years. The only repair ever required was a hammer V-spring replacement (see previous posting). Springs are cheap and is a simple DIY job for anyone. Of all my revolvers, the .357 is the last one I would part with. The market must feel the same. Cheap Troopers are rare. Cheap .357s don't exist.
Spot on with the Colt .357/Trooper comparison to the 27/28 HP.

I found this mint first year Colt .357 (ser.no.811) with fully checkered grips a few years ago. Muzzle is still "in the white" as they were back then. I could probably get more for the grips than I paid for gun with grips!

Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 10-18-2013, 03:45 PM
44wheelman 44wheelman is offline
Member
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,520
Likes: 313
Liked 777 Times in 390 Posts
Default

So what's the difference between a Colt .357 & Trooper? The .357 was just absorbed into the Trooper line but otherwise the same?

I bought my 6" Colt model 357 about 6-7 years ago for $325 (same full check'd grips as above). It was about $25 more than my 28 (that had Pachmeyers), but Colts have appreciated more.

I still can't pick (for shooting) the Colt over my mod 28 (1967, "S" s/n), the 28 has a far smoother action. I've only ever felt two Colt revolvers that had better double actions than my S&W's; that was a Custom Shop Anaconda & a 1965 Python. I'm not too impressed with my .38 Officers Match compared to my 14, I've also got both 1917's...there is no comparison.

Believe me, I've tried to "expand my horizons" with Colts... but I keep ending up with S&W's, Springfields, and Ruger (& one USFA) for single actions.
Reply With Quote
  #42  
Old 10-18-2013, 03:57 PM
mkk41 mkk41 is offline
Banned
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: South East , PA . USA
Posts: 5,027
Likes: 485
Liked 1,610 Times in 884 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by 44wheelman View Post
So what's the difference between a Colt .357 & Trooper? The .357 was just absorbed into the Trooper line but otherwise the same?
Just like the 27 vs the 28. The only diff was the Colt .357 supposedly had a nicer finish and smoother action than the Trooper. (though my .357 finish is nothing to write home about compared to my Python) The original .357 was dropped in 1961 in favor of the Python. The original Trooper went on till 1969 when the Mk.III was introduced.


Last edited by mkk41; 10-18-2013 at 04:00 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #43  
Old 10-25-2013, 06:12 AM
redsfan2's Avatar
redsfan2 redsfan2 is offline
US Veteran
28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper 28-2 vs colt trooper  
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Western NY around Niagara
Posts: 296
Likes: 14
Liked 16 Times in 11 Posts
Default

My late brother loved Colts, but wasn't much on Smiths. I'm complete opposite. For some reason the Colt butts just dont'seem to fit well in my hand and Smiths feel perfect. Other than that I really can't comment since Colts dont' fit well ... I never bought one.
Reply With Quote
  #44  
Old 10-25-2013, 05:09 PM
Shiloh76 Shiloh76 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2009
Posts: 22
Likes: 2
Liked 9 Times in 4 Posts
Default 28-2 v. Trooper

I also own both. My Trooper is not nearly as pretty as those posted here but it shoots great - lockup is still tight, action is silky, and as accurate as any handgun I own. Not bad at all for a gun made in 1966, and which has been both carried and shot a fair amount over those years. But I love my 28-2 just as much. The Trooper is a bit smoother in double action but other than that, the main difference to me is in weight. The Trooper obviously is easier to carry, but the Highway Patrolman just soaks up the recoil of even full house magnum rounds. If you get the opportunity, get at least one of each - they are both terrific revolvers.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg P1010944.jpg (134.8 KB, 50 views)
File Type: jpg sw28-P1000986.jpg (199.9 KB, 45 views)
Reply With Quote
  #45  
Old 10-25-2013, 05:17 PM
perrazi perrazi is offline
Absent Comrade
 
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 2,998
Likes: 845
Liked 898 Times in 488 Posts
Default

for those who worry about where to get colts fixed, pm me I can get you a few names that still work on them.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
38spl, 586, cartridge, colt, ejector, endshake, gunsmith, l frame, lock, m28, model 10, model 19, model 27, model 28, n-frame, registered magnum, ruger, screwdriver, sig arms, stag, trooper

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Tell me about this Colt Trooper MK III MPD280 Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 12 01-29-2017 12:21 PM
Colt Trooper weatherby Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 25 08-29-2016 10:09 PM
FS/T: Colt Trooper III .22 Mag & Colt Cobra Please Lock.....gone to auction Busby GUNS - For Sale or Trade 1 06-28-2012 09:26 AM
Colt Trooper Value Wingmaster Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 17 08-29-2011 02:04 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 03:44 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)