I just bought a 6" model 28-2 with original box, paperwork and tools. In the special features section of the box is the code F585. Is there any way to find out what this feature is ? Thanks, Glynn

I do not think anyone knows what the special feature writings mean. I think those are all internal S&W codes.

James

Thanks, the reason I was asking is because by looking at the screw heads,it's never been open. But is has a target trigger and I know 28's weren't supposed to come with those.

One of the few options on the M28 was the trigger. Two were available, .265" serrated trigger or .400" smooth trigger. Is your trigger the latter?

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You're shy a few manners.

No sir,it's the serrated .500

Most likely an inventory or stock number - could have been added after leaving factory to distributor, etc

I think I read in Roy's book that there were no options available on 28s. Am I wrong? I know dealers would install target stocks, and one member here has a 28 box with target stocks checked on the label so at least one came from the factory so equipped, but I've never seen TH or TT.

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No life story has happy end.

I think a few out there had options but most people bought the 27 because the 28 was tailored for law enforcement. So being the gun was supposed to be a no thrills, I think that is why not many were ordered with special options. Did the 28 cost more than the 27 at the time?

James

Thanks everyone, decided since it already has the target trigger I might as well put in a new old stock target hammer I have. I'm not going to part with it so may as well make it like I like it

I would assume that the trigger was replaced after it left the factory, but anything is possible. However, note that on the box in your picture, TT and TH are not checked.

Looking in my 1980 Gun Digest, I found the following:

Smith & Wesson Highway Patrolman Model 28
...
Barrel: 4", 6"
...
Stocks: Checkered walnut, Magna. Grooved tangs and trigger.
...
Price: S&W Satin Blue, sandblasted frame and barrel top ... $190.50
Price: With target stocks ...... $205.50

As for the .265" serrated or the .400" smooth triggers, I took that straight from the SCS&W, bolstered by an M28-2 in my possession which has a .400" smooth trigger.

Update:
I just looked at Roy's book (page 217, History of Smith & Wesson) on the subject of the Highway Patrolman when it was added to the S&W catalog of January 1955:
"The revolver was equipped with standard walnut stocks but could be ordered with the factory oversized target stocks, which was the only accessory the factory offered for this model."

So certainly target stocks were an option. Perhaps the trigger option was added later(?) Or Roy did not consider the optional trigger an "accessory" (similar to the barrel option)?

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You're shy a few manners.

Makes you wonder about the nickel 28's out there.

James

Almost all are aftermarket, and the factory ones are fairly accurately documented. Were I to find one I would assume it to be a refinish, unless it had a letter from the esteemed Mr. Jinks.

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Even older, even crankier....

I have a 17-2 w / "3 and a half pound pull" written in that block.

Also has three Munich Proof House marks above the yoke and one on the bbl, just fwd of the yoke. ( I call it The Bavarian )