S&W model 28 versus 28-2

[ruger 22]

I am sure this has been answered many times, but at the expense of being redundant, what is the main difference between the 28 and 28-2? Which is the most desirable?
Thanks.

[JP@AK]

Two major differences:

1. The Model 28 had right hand threads on the extractor rod, where it mates to the extractor star. The -2 has left hand threads. This change was made to stop the extractor rod from backing out and jamming up the cylinder. This is one change that is unarguably an improvement, IMHO.

2. The Model 28 has a four screw frame, while the 28-2 has only three frame screws. The one that was eliminated was the cylinder stop plunger retaining screw, located in the front of the trigger guard.

Which is the most desirable?

It is difficult to answer that, as asked. It can be an extremely subjective judgment. Collectors tend to like the 5 and 4 screw examples. Clearly, there were fewer Model 28 HPs made than 28-2 revolvers. The latter was in production for 20 years, while the Model 28 lasted only from 1958 until 1961.

On the flip side, the -2 can be thought of as a definite improvement over its predecessor, from a shooter's standpoint - primarily due to the changed threads.

So, it is really just a matter of what you want out of the gun.

The best solution is to have two of each - one each with a 4" barrel and one each with a 6" barrel.

[Narragansett]

Originally Posted by JP@AK

Two major differences:

1. The Model 28 had right hand threads on the extractor rod, where it mates to the extractor star. The -2 has left hand threads. This change was made to stop the extractor rod from backing out and jamming up the cylinder. This is one change that is unarguably an improvement, IMHO.

2. The Model 28 has a four screw frame, while the 28-2 has only three frame screws. The one that was eliminated was the cylinder stop plunger retaining screw, located in the front of the trigger guard.


It is difficult to answer that, as asked. It can be an extremely subjective judgment. Collectors tend to like the 5 and 4 screw examples. Clearly, there were fewer Model 28 HPs made than 28-2 revolvers. The latter was in production for 20 years, while the Model 28 lasted only from 1958 until 1961.

On the flip side, the -2 can be thought of as a definite improvement over its predecessor, from a shooter's standpoint - primarily due to the changed threads.

So, it is really just a matter of what you want out of the gun.

The best solution is to have two of each - one each with a 4" barrel and one each with a 6" barrel.

2 of each, . Sound wisdom!!

[azmick]

Another version is the norm model marked 4 screw frame HP. A very short production run and time span. Only the -1 is tougher to find (IMHO).

[SRT]

Originally Posted by ruger 22

...what is the main difference between the 28 and 28-2?

In addition to what the other responders said, $$.

[JP@AK]

Originally Posted by azmick

Only the -1 is tougher to find

That is the understatement of the century! So far, we only know of one in existence.

[oysterer]

4 each, unfired 4'', shooter 4'' and the same in 6''

Once you have the 28-1

You have to have a unfired brushed nickel salesman sample and another brushed nickel salesman shooter grade. Any barrel length will do on that one.

[Jack Flash]

M28 or M28-2 ... That depends.

If my old uncle Allardice threw open his M28 collection and said to me pick any one you want, I will sell the rest on GoBroker and then gamble away the proceeds in Vegas, I would pick the M28.

If he said the same thing except that he would donate the money from the rest to a widows and orphans charity, I would probably take the least valuable M28-2 knowing that it would be a very serviceable shooter that I could probably never wear out. (I hope I would also donate its value to the same charity!)

[ruger 22]

Thanks! your answers are much appreciated

[Kingspoke]

I have a (unfired) 4" 28-2 and a couple of 6" 28 no dash. The SWSC lists a 30% premium for the ND 28's. All the 28's are really nice guns, for shooting or collecting imo.

[RKmesa]

Choosing one is a personal decision. I'm just here to help... with a few photos - because every thread needs photos.

Like New 28-2:





Like New Model Marked 28:





Well Used 28-2:





Well used Model Marked 28:





I am in the JP@AK school of thought that you need one of each (one in shooter condition and one in collector condition...). Now, I'm sure you're feeling more confident about your decision, aren't you?