Looking for a 27-2

[Professor Brown]

Greetings Revolver Enthusiasts,
I'm beginning my quest to find a 27-2 (5" preferred) to sit along side my 19-4 which I've owned since 1984. I've seen a few 27-2's on various sites but I'm not comfortable paying market price for a gun I can't see or touch. My question is: Is there a better way to find and preview these gems in person? Most gun shops in my area only have new or used revolvers that I am not interested in. Oh yeah, I live in California so many auction site participants will not even ship to my state!
Also, what should I look out for when buying a vintage revolver?
Thanks for any insight.
I have learned so much just reading these posts.

[Lou_the_welder]

I happened on to my 27-2 4" by luck. It was sitting at a Turner's. I still remember the price. $711(otd). The sticker was 650.
My advice. Just look. The deals I got were local. I'm glad most around want their semi's or AR somethings.
The guns I didn't get deals on but had to jump on them were on calguns. Most on there want to make a buck. Or sell at a premium. Or off- roster super-California premium . So you may not get the best prices there.
So, the LGS is my recommendation.
This is my 27-2 nickel 4".

[Professor Brown]

Wow, Beautiful 27-2. Thanks for the advice! I'll keep watching at the LGS!

[Nightowl]

You have to realize that the 27-2 has not been made in nearly 40 years, and the 5 inch was made in smaller numbers than other barrel lengths. That said, they are out there and good ones are commanding premium prices, especially if there is an original box with one. Good luck in your hunt!

[Lou_the_welder]

I passed on a no box 27-2 ,blued 5". The price was 1k. About a year ago.
Although the gun looked immaculate. I just wasn't much into it. Having too many 5" revolvers at the time.
They can be found.

[rubiranch]

Here's my 5" M-27-2. Its not for sale.

My 4" is a pre-27.

[UncleEd]

This is not directly aimed at the OP
but sometimes if you come across
something you really really want,
just pay the price.

I'm not saying pay an outrageous
price but occasionally a nice gem
is just there and while maybe beyond
what you'd LIKE TO PAY, go ahead and
pay it any way.

[sodacan]

I agree with UncleEd. No one likes to overpay, but you can look a long time and never find one that fills the bill in terms of price and condition, especially when it's a very desirable model. Good luck.

[SLT223]

These things aren’t necessities and if you want something badly enough you’ll do a bad deal. Just be patient and keep your eyes open locally. I’m in revolver no man’s land and scored a high condition K22 all target features for $559 a couple days ago. It happen. Just keep watching.

[Mblhopo]

Gun shows are a good place to look around, and get a feel for what is out there and what the market is...……………………………………………...M*

[rubiranch]

Originally Posted by sodacan

I agree with UncleEd.

I agree a with UncleEd too.

The most you're out is a little money. That's all.

[LittleCooner]

Uncle Ed has it correct. It's just money Professor Brown, and as you age, you will find that less and less of those worldly things will bring your pleasure. If you find your holy grail 27-2, become educated on current market value and then "just buy it".

[Chukar60]

Mind what Uncle Ed says.
You can look an awful long time for a specific gun. A 27-2 or any 27 or pre-27 in 5” is a gun lots of folks want to own.
As long as the price isn’t too far out of whack, buy it.
You have to consider how much the price of a desirable Smith will go up in a year or three while you search for the perfect deal.
Just have to decide which is more important, a good deal or a good gun which you are wanting.

[Professor Brown]

Thanks to all for the words of advise and encouragement. I will keep my eyes and wallet open and post a photo when I get it!