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 10-19-2018, 10:30 PM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default New to me 3 1/2" 27-2 .

I just picked up an old blue box 27-2 3 1/2" 357 ,the box is serialized to the gun but I'm confused of the build date. Inside the lid it says 1955 but I thought the dash 2s didn't come out until later. Perhaps some of the smarter folks on the forum can give me some insight the serial number is N 38 2xx.
Thanks in advance and before someone gets on me about pics I haven't had it long enough to get any yet.😉 pics will come soon
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #2  
Old 10-19-2018, 10:57 PM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Pictures as promised,
Attached Images
File Type: jpg 20181019_194305.jpg (44.6 KB, 337 views)
File Type: jpg 20181019_194331.jpg (41.9 KB, 332 views)
File Type: jpg 20181019_194351.jpg (35.1 KB, 359 views)
File Type: jpg 20181019_194341.jpg (47.0 KB, 290 views)
File Type: jpg 20181019_194416.jpg (56.9 KB, 268 views)
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 10-19-2018, 10:58 PM
Kingspoke's Avatar
Kingspoke Kingspoke is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Kommiefornia
Posts: 848
Likes: 2,216
Liked 2,541 Times in 518 Posts
Thumbs up 27-2 3.5 Cult revolver

You have a great lil 3.5" 27-2, so congrats on that. The 27-2 came out in 1961, according to the 5 digit N serial number, your gun was made between 70-72. Someone here can really narrow it down for you.

The 3.5" 27 has a cult like following. Probably among the coolest revolver that Smith & Wesson ever produced. I have one in the 372xxx range, so probably 76-77 production. In 1979 the 3.5" barrel was discontinued (aside from special releases, not dash 2).

Here's a pic of mine, as purchased.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg S&W 27-2 3.5 Case.jpg (20.1 KB, 119 views)

Last edited by Kingspoke; 10-19-2018 at 11:03 PM. Reason: added pic
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #4  
Old 10-19-2018, 11:11 PM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Thanks for the info and your 27-2 is very nice I wish mine had the presentation box but at least my box is correct for my gun I'm happy about that
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #5  
Old 10-19-2018, 11:43 PM
Kingspoke's Avatar
Kingspoke Kingspoke is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Kommiefornia
Posts: 848
Likes: 2,216
Liked 2,541 Times in 518 Posts
Thumbs up 27-2 3.5"

Thank you! You are very fortunate to have the original box and papers! The box is labeled to your specific gun, and these boxes are quite pricey. You can buy a display case quite readily. Cheers!

Last edited by Kingspoke; 10-19-2018 at 11:54 PM. Reason: added box info
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #6  
Old 10-20-2018, 10:36 AM
Art Doc's Avatar
Art Doc Art Doc is offline
SWCA Member
Absent Comrade
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: The kidney of Dixie.
Posts: 10,509
Likes: 49
Liked 13,409 Times in 3,290 Posts
Default

The 1955 date is the copyright date for the text printed on the box.
__________________
No life story has happy end.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #7  
Old 10-20-2018, 03:01 PM
ben_g1's Avatar
ben_g1 ben_g1 is offline
US Veteran
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Iowa
Posts: 1,442
Likes: 1,560
Liked 2,745 Times in 719 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by SOUTHERNGUNNER View Post
Thanks for the info and your 27-2 is very nice I wish mine had the presentation box but at least my box is correct for my gun I'm happy about that
I'd be a little suspicious about that being the original box. Seems like I remember the boxes with the embossed information on the end was stopped in the late 60's. Could be wrong about that, sure someone will correct me if so. Labels are easily replaced with authentic looking re-pops.

By chance does the top of box have a solid border line or a serrated one?

Nice gun, my favorite barrel length.
__________________
Vietnam 1969-1971

Last edited by ben_g1; 10-20-2018 at 03:05 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 10-20-2018, 10:00 PM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by ben_g1 View Post
I'd be a little suspicious about that being the original box. Seems like I remember the boxes with the embossed information on the end was stopped in the late 60's. Could be wrong about that, sure someone will correct me if so. Labels are easily replaced with authentic looking re-pops.

By chance does the top of box have a solid border line or a serrated one?

Nice gun, my favorite barrel length.
The top of the box looks like this
Attached Images
File Type: jpg 20181020_185429.jpg (64.4 KB, 120 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #9  
Old 10-21-2018, 12:08 PM
ben_g1's Avatar
ben_g1 ben_g1 is offline
US Veteran
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Iowa
Posts: 1,442
Likes: 1,560
Liked 2,745 Times in 719 Posts
Default

Thanks for the picture. The solid line boxes were from approximately 1957-1966, the dotted line 1966-1985. I can't find a definite time-line for the printed (embossed) information on the end flap. Seems to be late 60's, but like they say never say never with S&W information. They tend to use up whatever is on the shelf.

You got yourself one of the most sought after S&W revolvers, model 27's with the 3 1/2" barrel. Enjoy it, guarantee it will put a smile on your face every time you take it out.
__________________
Vietnam 1969-1971
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 10-21-2018, 02:00 PM
Doc44's Avatar
Doc44 Doc44 is offline
Moderator

New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Indiana, USA
Posts: 9,384
Likes: 1,316
Liked 30,338 Times in 4,353 Posts
Default

The box for your 27-2 is correct, as printing on the end with model information and a sticker on the other end was in use at least through the late 70s. I have a box for a Model 19 with a serial number in the 43K range that is printed on the end with a sticker on the other end. The 19-4 most likely dates to 1978. However, S&W was inconsistent on this, as I have two Model 66s in their original boxes dating to 1970 that do not have printing on one end. I believe this is the case because this model was first manufactured in 1970 and new boxes were printed.

Bill
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #11  
Old 10-21-2018, 04:48 PM
ben_g1's Avatar
ben_g1 ben_g1 is offline
US Veteran
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Iowa
Posts: 1,442
Likes: 1,560
Liked 2,745 Times in 719 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Doc44 View Post
The box for your 27-2 is correct, as printing on the end with model information and a sticker on the other end was in use at least through the late 70s. I have a box for a Model 19 with a serial number in the 43K range that is printed on the end with a sticker on the other end. The 19-4 most likely dates to 1978. However, S&W was inconsistent on this, as I have two Model 66s in their original boxes dating to 1970 that do not have printing on one end. I believe this is the case because this model was first manufactured in 1970 and new boxes were printed.

Bill
Thanks for clearing that up Bill. I would never "guess" that the printing went all the way to the late 70's. I have around 16 model 27's (P&R) in boxes and only the ones (4) before 1968 have the printed ends.

In the third edition SCSW it mentions about the printing along with a picture for the 1957-1966 time frame, but mention nothing of it in the 1966-1985 time frame.

For the 27 models is it rather rare to see the printed ends on boxes from the 70's?

Thanks for clearing this up. It's what makes this forum so great.
__________________
Vietnam 1969-1971
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #12  
Old 10-21-2018, 06:33 PM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Thanks everyone for the info, I had a gut feeling that the box was original to the gun but the copyright date threw me off as I was aware the dash 2 started in the early 60s.
I can't wait to get put and try the old gal.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 10-22-2018, 01:10 AM
Patrip Patrip is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: Texas
Posts: 35
Likes: 19
Liked 63 Times in 21 Posts
Default

One of my grail guns is the 3.5 inch 27. One day......one day.....great snag.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 10-25-2018, 02:11 AM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Talking

Thanks everyone for the info ,now I can begin the quest for the 5 inch version
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 10-25-2018, 07:17 AM
S&WsRsweet S&WsRsweet is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: May 2017
Location: TTown Alabama ,Roll Tide
Posts: 1,652
Likes: 9,772
Liked 2,220 Times in 1,031 Posts
Default

The 3.5 inch revolvers especially the 27s are very businesslike .Good luck on the 5 inch may the force be with you.Sorry watched Starwars with grandson last night for the 100th time .

Last edited by S&WsRsweet; 10-25-2018 at 07:18 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #16  
Old 10-25-2018, 07:52 PM
YeshuaIsa53's Avatar
YeshuaIsa53 YeshuaIsa53 is offline
SWCA Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: SE USA
Posts: 2,437
Likes: 4,443
Liked 1,881 Times in 852 Posts
Default

That specific box is like the icing on the cake. Great find.
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 10-25-2018, 08:27 PM
rockquarry rockquarry is online now
Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 7,553
Likes: 4
Liked 8,885 Times in 4,121 Posts
Default

I've had a 3.5" 27-2 for about thirty years. To me, this is the best looking of all S&W revolvers, particularly with Magna stocks or aftermarket stags of the Magna size.

Some on here may know the story behind the short barrel; I don't. I've always thought the short barrel was a bit impractical for any .357 Magnum gun. These are massive, heavy revolvers, not concealment guns regardless of barrel length. However, they are great shooters and pretty accurate, like any of the older 27s.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 10-25-2018, 10:36 PM
rbmac52's Avatar
rbmac52 rbmac52 is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Texas
Posts: 1,832
Likes: 3,009
Liked 2,129 Times in 893 Posts
Default

Your box, if original, indicates that the gun shipped with the standard service trigger and hammer and service stocks (magnas). If so, the target accessories (TT, TH, TS) were likely added later.
__________________
FBINA, 204th Session
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #19  
Old 10-26-2018, 10:57 AM
SOUTHERNGUNNER SOUTHERNGUNNER is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: western Arizona territory
Posts: 87
Likes: 21
Liked 50 Times in 16 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by rbmac52 View Post
Your box, if original, indicates that the gun shipped with the standard service trigger and hammer and service stocks (magnas). If so, the target accessories (TT, TH, TS) were likely added later.
I noticed the trigger and hammer wasn't marked on the box, however the gun also has red ramp and white outline rear sight that isn't marked on the box either. The mystery continues but I am very pleased with my 27-2 ,Thanks for the reply.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 10-27-2018, 04:16 PM
bc1023 bc1023 is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Jun 2013
Posts: 705
Likes: 5
Liked 3,655 Times in 420 Posts
Default

I don't own a 3.5" 27, but I do have a 1938 RM and 1950 Pre-27, both with that barrel length...



Last edited by bc1023; 10-27-2018 at 04:17 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 10-27-2018, 08:07 PM
boykinlp's Avatar
boykinlp boykinlp is offline
Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: South Carolina
Posts: 7,221
Likes: 18,406
Liked 11,064 Times in 3,292 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by bc1023 View Post
I don't own a 3.5" 27, but I do have a 1938 RM and 1950 Pre-27, both with that barrel length...


I consider myself a pretty nice guy. Since I think it is tragic that you don't have a 3.5" 27, I will make a huge sacrifice and trade you my NIB 3.5" 27 for that "junker" 1938 RM. And just to show you how much of a sacrifice, mine is even nickel finished, for your common blued gun.

Seriously, love both of your guns!!!
Larry
__________________
Miss My Buddy crsides!!
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 10-28-2018, 11:09 AM
Nightowl's Avatar
Nightowl Nightowl is offline
SWCA Member
New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 . New to me  3 1/2" 27-2 .  
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Warrensburg, MO USA
Posts: 5,404
Likes: 2,841
Liked 3,294 Times in 1,688 Posts
Default

I agree that the box indicates it shipped with plain sights, standard hammer and trigger and Magna stocks. I bought a new one in 1970 in 5 inch and it came standard. I would guess that someone sent it back for the full target upgrade, as the full target 27s did not begin shipping until fall of 1975, and in the wood presentation box, like the Model 29.

But, who cares! Great looking gun and great fun to shoot. I am currently shooting 13.5 of 2400 for a nice boom and great muzzle flash on the indoor range. :-). I've thought about going to 14 grains, but 13.5 seems ok too.
__________________
Richard Gillespie
FBINA 102
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Dinty Moore """Beef Stew"""" is more like: hamburger soup. the ringo kid The Lounge 131 01-16-2018 07:45 PM
Thinking of ordering a 686P 4" 7 round .357 .... "Help"!! Need some reviews on them... Is the 6" better or is the 4" equally good? .460V & XVR Magnum Man S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 37 07-06-2017 06:26 PM
If you liked "Red Dawn" and "Jericho" - "Falling Skies" starts Sunday GatorFarmer The Lounge 15 08-14-2012 11:58 PM
"SPF" 5906 Square TG, W/ 2 ext. mags "Shipped" "SPF" Rone GUNS - For Sale or Trade 7 12-15-2010 12:40 PM
Use caution when dealing with "roniva123", a.k.a. "PB Firearms", a.k.a. "Snubbies" allglock Feedback 17 08-07-2009 04:31 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 10:13 PM.


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