The ultimate Highway Patrolman thread.including N frame ser# ranges

[Rodan]

Just discovered this thread, so I've added my HP from 1954 below.

I know the HP was introduced as a lower cost option to the .357 Magnum, and from what I have found, the HP was $85 when introduced. Does anyone have the price for a .357 Magnum from the same time period? I haven't been able to find that, and I'm curious as to the actual cost difference...

Anyway, here's some pics:

[PeteC]

Originally Posted by Rodan

...I know the HP was introduced as a lower cost option to the .357 Magnum, and from what I have found, the HP was $85 when introduced. Does anyone have the price for a .357 Magnum from the same time period? I haven't been able to find that, and I'm curious as to the actual cost difference...

In 1960, the HP still cost $85 (inflation was running at a whopping 1% per year) In the same catalog, a model 27 was listed at $120. Adjusted for inflation, that would be about $1200 today.

[Rodan]

Thank you. Exactly the info I was looking for. About 2 days pay for the average cop at the time!

[PeteC]

According to information in this forum, mine dates from about July 1954, s/n 113xxx:

[PeteC]

Originally Posted by Rodan

Thank you. Exactly the info I was looking for. About 2 days pay for the average cop at the time!

Do you mean weeks, or days? Average wage was about $1.50~$2/hr for skilled workers in the mid-50's. Minimum wage was 75 cents! Police departments did not have the budgets and toys they have today

[Rodan]

~2 days at ~$2/hr. just for the difference between a Highway Patrolman and the 357 Magnum.

Of course, just as today, police wages were all over the map, but that's a rough average for the mid-50s from what I was able to find on the 'net this morning.

[PeteC]

Originally Posted by Rodan

~2 days at ~$2/hr. just for the difference between a Highway Patrolman and the 357 Magnum...

You're right, I thought you meant the retail price of the gun, not the difference

[bill-in-texas]

Here's something I found in a publication from 1955, the pre- model number years:





from

Originally Posted by Rodan

...the price for a .357 Magnum from the same time period?

$85.00 for the HP versus $109.30 for the .357 Magnum, according to this publication.

-Bill


Prices in 1955



.357 Magnum Clearly Shown with Target Stocks...

[pantannojack]

I have a 6" n1927xx with lazy ampersand. Looks like 1977 from page one here. If target grips, is football diamond required for correctness? I would love correct Magnas with Tyler T.

[PeteC]

Originally Posted by pantannojack

I have a 6" n1927xx with lazy ampersand. Looks like 1977 from page one here. If target grips, is football diamond required for correctness? I would love correct Magnas with Tyler T.

The grips with the diamond in the center were discontinued around 1968. The football relief (a.k.a. extractor cut) was discontinued on N-frames around 1980. So, football cut, yes, diamond center, no. (Ref SCSW IV pg 38)
Also according to the SCSW, N100000~N199999 is 1973

[sophie]

I just couldn’t stand it any longer and after reading this Highway Patrolman thread for several years now, I just had to get in on it. I purchased this 6” Highway Patrolman, Model 28-2, a little over 3 years ago. It doesn’t show to have been shot very much. It is complete with the correct box, literature, and complete tool kit. The box reflects the target grips and this Highway Patrolman has a .400” smooth face semi-target trigger and a .400” semi-target combat hammer, per the SCSW book, 4th edition. In reading this Ultimate Highway Patrolman thread I haven’t seen many guns with the .400” smooth face trigger. It feels real good when shooting the gun. The serial # is N453XX indicating 1969 to 1972 production. It shoots as good as it looks. Thanks for letting me join this excellent Ultimate Highway Patrolman Thread.

[boykinlp]

Originally Posted by sophie

I just couldn’t stand it any longer and after reading this Highway Patrolman thread for several years now, I just had to get in on it. I purchased this 6” Highway Patrolman a little over 3 years ago. It doesn’t show to have been shot very much. It is complete with the correct box, literature, and complete tool kit. The box reflects the target grips and this Highway Patrolman has a .400” smooth face semi-target trigger and a .400” semi-target combat hammer, per the SCSW book, 4th edition. In reading this Ultimate Highway Patrolman thread I haven’t seen many guns with the .400” smooth face trigger. It feels real good when shooting the gun. The serial # is N453XX indicating 1969 to 1972 production. It shoots as good as it looks. Thanks for letting me join this excellent Ultimate Highway Patrolman Thread.

Sophie, I really like the looks of your smooth trigger. I bet it does feel good when shooting double action. I have one on a 17-3.
Larry

[bill-in-texas]

Originally Posted by sophie

I just couldn’t stand it any longer and after reading this Highway Patrolman thread for several years now, I just had to get in on it...

James,
That’s an excellent example, in a configuration that I wasn’t aware of. 🙂
Thanks for sharing!
-Bill

[jcs266]

Well it took me DAYS to read this entire thread and admire these beautiful 28’s! By the way I have thoroughly enjoyed this thread! I’ve learned a lot too.

I just found a 6” 28-2 in near-new condition. Not sure if the Target stocks it came with are original because they don’t seem to fit quite right at the web of the hand area. The rear sight also looks like it was swapped out, it has grooves on the top, and a white outline.

I prefer Magna grips so am looking for a pair now. A Tyler T-Grip is also something I want for it.

Here is my one and only Model 28… Ser# N266xxx

These pics were taken at the shop - when I get it cleaned up I will add better pics.

[PeteC]

N266 == 1974~1977
The rear sight may be from a different N-frame revolver.
There may be a good reason why the target grips don't fit seamlessly.

If you post your Model 28-2 in the forum in its own thread, you may get more specific answers.
N-frame Tyler adapters can be hard to find, N-frame Magnas are easier.

In any case, the condition of the gun seems to be very good, which is what matters. Enjoy!

[spin132]

Originally Posted by jcs266

Not sure if the Target stocks it came with are original because they don’t seem to fit quite right...

That's a very handsome Patrolman you landed, looking forward to more pictures!

Pretty sure those are K/L frame target stocks which is why they don't fit properly.

Sent from my SM-G996U using Tapatalk

[jcs266]

Ah!!! YES I bet that's it - K frame Targets.

I'm looking for Magnas now and will swap them out ASAP.

Will try to post more pics this morning after i feed the chickens and pigs and get some more coffee in me.

Originally Posted by spin132

That's a very handsome Patrolman you landed, looking forward to more pictures!

Pretty sure those are K/L frame target stocks which is why they don't fit properly.

Sent from my SM-G996U using Tapatalk

[Vtgw938]

I have N266100 which S&W indicated was made (frame anyway) 1976.

[jcs266]

Originally Posted by Vtgw938

I have N266100 which S&W indicated was made (frame anyway) 1976.

Wow within less than 300 digits of one another! I’ve been watching the thread to find an N266xxx and didn’t see any. Thanks for the input. Yep I figured probably a 1976 shipping date.

[jcs266]

A couple more pics. More later after I get it cleaned / oiled and some different grips on it.

[jcs266]

Here we go. Cleaned her up and put on the correct stocks from the same serial number period…

[jcs266]

Fired 30 rds today in my home range pit. She shoots like a dream. Full power factory .357 Mag Rem 158gr SJHP were mild in this big robust revolver. Easily managed in this old classic.

[gmborkovic]

Has anyone heard from the member that initiated this great Thread?

[jcs266]

Originally Posted by gmborkovic

Has anyone heard from the member that initiated this great Thread?

Good question, I've wondered this myself - this is a fantastic collection of great info and pics. I sure hope he's still keeping an eye on his Masterpiece now and then.

[Narragansett]

Originally Posted by jcs266

Good question, I've wondered this myself - this is a fantastic collection of great info and pics. I sure hope he's still keeping an eye on his Masterpiece now and then.

Looks like his last activity 6/2/22

[oilspill]

Bumping this thread because I have a 28-2 that was traded in to my shop a couple days ago, reading through here it seems to be a pretty early 3 screw -2 with a serial of S2221XX which would put it around 61/62?

[BC38]

Originally Posted by oilspill

Bumping this thread because I have a 28-2 that was traded in to my shop a couple days ago, reading through here it seems to be a pretty early 3 screw -2 with a serial of S2221XX which would put it around 61/62?

What, no pictures?

[oilspill]

Originally Posted by BC38

What, no pictures?

[BC38]

THAT'S more like it - and I LIKE IT.
You got yourself a really nice one!

[Adam Baker]

I just bid and won a 28-2 marked NYSP. Awaiting shipping to my FFL. Post em when I get her.

[PeteC]

Originally Posted by oilspill

Bumping this thread because I have a 28-2 that was traded in to my shop a couple days ago, reading through here it seems to be a pretty early 3 screw -2 with a serial of S2221XX which would put it around 61/62?

I think that is earlier than the "earliest observed" 28-2 and 3-screw gun listed in the first post of this thread.

[LPD256]

Originally Posted by Vtgw938

I have N266100 which S&W indicated was made (frame anyway) 1976.

Love the grips on your gun. To me they look like either old Hogues or Farrants from the LAPD era. Do you know who made them.

[Tom S.]

I have 2 and a half model 28-2's.

N101235 was my first handgun, bought new in 1973.





N188938 was purchased two years ago at the SWCA Symposium auction.




The 1/2 model was also purchased at a SWCA Symposium:

[RacingSnake]

Just picked this one up this afternoon.
N183217 from 1973

[Vtgw938]

Originally Posted by LPD256

Love the grips on your gun. To me they look like either old Hogues or Farrants from the LAPD era. Do you know who made them.

LPD256: They are Guy Hogue of course, with S&W medallions. They are two piece with the islands and even had/have wood pegs to help hold the grips in alignment, just like he later used to glue the monogrips together with. I can't be certain if Guy installed the medallions but I am hoping so. Patrick Hogue couldn't confirm that he did. Would be interesting if anyone else has a pair (grips with medallions). Used medallions were used.

[LPD256]

I love the original Guy Hogue/John Hurst/Fuzzy Farrant grips, particularly on old Police guns. I thought yours were Guy Hogues. They look really nice. Thanks for your reply. I’m guessing Guy did the medallions as a special request.

[dobegrant]

My Highway Patrolman from 1969

[spin132]

One more for the pile, a 4 screw 28 no-dash (190524). Shipped April 1959. Came to me with the cokes, but doubt it shipped that way.

Sent from my SM-G996U using Tapatalk

[Wyo]

Th is a 28-2, Serial No. N336xx. As you can see, this one has had some work. It went back to the factory for a higher polish finish and action job. Then the trigger face was smoothed and a 14 carat gold bead Patridge front sight pinned in. This is one of my favorites for carry in the mountains and deserts, even in grizzly country as it handles the heavy, hard cast loads wonderfully.

[Kingspoke]

I'm a fan of the 28 as well and had a few at one time, but still retained a 28 No Dash 4 screw. That unique,smooth sight leaf, that flat black trigger guard, & satin blue finish, tapered barrel, is a working man's revolver!











Culina's for range time!

[Supadupa69]

[Hair Trigger]

Originally Posted by sophie

I purchased this 6” Highway Patrolman, Model 28-2, a little over 3 years ago. and this Highway Patrolman has a .400” smooth face semi-target trigger and a .400” semi-target combat hammer, per the SCSW book, 4th edition. In reading this Ultimate Highway Patrolman thread I haven’t seen many guns with the .400” smooth face trigger. It feels real good when shooting the gun. The serial # is N453XX indicating 1969 to 1972 production.

I have a M28-2 from 1973 (N189236) that also has the .400" smooth combat trigger and semi-target hammer. I wish all my S&W's had that trigger, it feels great.

[packard8]

Following, I have the same in nickel, a 6" with a reworked trigger. It's a tack driver using 38 Spl Wadcutters. Not looking to sell at this point, but curious as to the value.

[gunnison]

Still looking for Non Model Marked 4 screw Highway Patrolman revolvers to add to the database.Please post if you have one or if you prefer PM or email me. Pictures would be appreciated or description with barrel length, stocks and serial number please provide full number if possible. Information will be kept confidential if requested.

[Supadupa69]

28-2 4” with box

[.38SuperMan]

I don’t remember if I’ve posted this before but here’s the only M28-2 4” that I own. I purchased it new in 1978 for $177 and still have the receipt, box and all the paperwork. The # is N5182XX indicating it was an early 78 production.

[A10]

Originally Posted by packard8

Following, I have the same in nickel, a 6" with a reworked trigger. It's a tack driver using 38 Spl Wadcutters. Not looking to sell at this point, but curious as to the value.

There's a really good chance your nickel 28 is a refinish. Pictures would help. It's hard to put a value on one without seeing it. Condition is everything, and though an aftermarket nickel job will impact value if it's well done it won't be too bad. Serial number range helps too...

[packard8]

@ A10.....

I posted pix in reply #1818 in this thread. The S/N is S195811. Good chance it has been refinished, and the trigger is very light, almost a "hair trigger' in the single action mode.