New to the forum, so please excuse any rookie mistakes.

I recently purchased a S&W 27-2 6" from a dealer out of state. I pick it up tomorrow from my local FFL.

Question: In dealing with older firearms, would you have it inspected by a gunsmith before firing it? If the lockup seems tight and I can't detect any other mechanical issues, is it probably safe to give it a go?

I also own an XDM 9mm and Ruger Single Six, but I purchased those new. Is taking to a gunsmith prudence or folly?

Thanks!

When I've bought pistols online from someone out of state, I've given them a good going over before accepting them, then went straight to the range with them as soon as it was convenient. If you are familiar with revolvers then you should know how to give it a good checking out and see if you think it needs a revolver smith to look at it. BTW, I've bought 4 model 27's and a 629 Classic this way off GB.

In case you didn't see it. This good advice was posted earlier today by Dkrueger17 and if you'll follow it you should be fine in confirming your 27-2 as ready to shoot.

A quick and easy way to check for "push-off" on a revolver is to have the hammer fully cocked back, which will make the trigger go back as well against the back of the trigger guard. Now, while not touching the trigger at all, attempt to push the hammer forward again with your thumb. Ideally, you should NOT succeed in making the hammer move; it should stay put. If it drops, there is a problem. Perhaps a simple tightening of the mainspring could solve this issue if it were to exist.

With timing, your looking for each of the 6 chambers to align, and lock up with the barrel when the hammer drops. There's various methods to checking timing. It is important to check the lock up (cylinder play) of the cylinder as well. This is done by cocking the hammer, and then gently pull the trigger while holding the back of the hammer with your thumb as to make sure it doesn't "slam" forward. Slowly let the hammer forward and keep the trigger fully depressed (this is important to keep the trigger pulled while checking timing/end shake.) At full lock-up, use your other hand, and attempt to rotate the cylinder back and forth...a very slight movement is generally OK, as long as it is not excessive. Also, try to move the cylinder forward and backwards to check end shake. Check these things on each of the (6) positions of the cylinder.

These are just general, quick practices I use when checking revolvers.

Here's some detailed answers for you...Revolver checkout: how to tell if a particular specimen is any good.

Enjoy.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

While it's possible that your used 27-2 has some issues a gunsmith could detect (eg timing, bubba trigger) I've never seen a 27-2 with a problem that would make it unsafe to shoot.

When I buy a 100+ year old shotgun with Damascus barrels, I have my gunsmith check it (mostly for thickness of the barrels - he has the tools to measure along the entire length of the barrels).

Any problem with a modern revolver, I can discover myself. A M 27-2 is definitely a modern revolver.

If you're worried, use a ffl that has a gunsmith on staff and have your revolver checked when received.

Welcome aboard!

Excellent advice from the other members. I've bought many revolvers from sellers on either Guns America or Gunbroker and have only had one problem, and that was "push off" with a Model 57 that was not disclosed to me by the seller before I placed my bids. You'll read many posts here from those who have had "trigger action jobs" for just as many different reasons. In my opinion, if there is "push off" then that revolver is not safe for me to use.

I also agree with the recommendation to use an FFL who has either an armorer or gunsmith on site. I have always had that person check my revolvers before I left the premises. If there is a problem, you'll have an independent third party to vouch for your rejection. Once you leave the premises it's your word against the sellers and the situation becomes complicated, i.e. did you have someone modify the revolver?

I have attached a checklist that I use that may be helpful.

Attached Files

Revolver Check Out Procedural Steps.pdf (76.3 KB, 29 views)

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If I don't see any obvious red flags from the outside like evidence of abuse, or feel anything wrong in cocking the hammer, pulling the trigger, etc, I don't much worry about it. The 27 was one of the finest revolvers ever made and they very rarely develop issues unless abused. Go back to opening remark.

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