Are the new S&W Model 27 Classics better or worse than some of the older model 27-X models?

Seems like you can pay as much or more for a used model. So I guess my question is which is better to buy as a range / night stand gun?

I like the classic blued look with wood grips? Also considering same for a Model 29.

If you get a new model 27 classic look at the front portion of the grip, on the frame. The last few I have looked at have had numerous dings in that area. My theory is the guy doing the polishing, final finishing is wearing a ring digging into the frame.

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The other thing I forgot to ask. I am assuming a Model 27-2 in very good condition will appreciate a better than a new Model 27 classic. I just dont know which generations are better as it isn't real clear.

In terms of strength and function, a newer model 27 is at least the equal of an older one. As far as the details (finish quality, the top strap and barrel rib checkering, solid wood stocks, etc.) most here would opt for an older version in nice condition that will only become more valuable with time.

Good luck in your decision.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

I'm going to be conservative here, and say the 27-9 I've got is as nice as any other Model 27 I've ever owned (and I've owned three others, including a "Pre-27."). It might be nicer, but I had to sell the others a few years ago and my memory might be a bit foggy.

The fit and finish is just as good as I remember, and it shoots just fine. The lock is of no concern to me, nor is the lack of a barrel pin or recessed chambers. It's just a very attractive, good shooting 4" barrel, 357. I really like the bluing and the Altamont stocks.





I'm not sure what a -2 or older would sell for around here, but I have seen them tagged in the $1200.00 and up class, depending on condition, box, papers, etc. I paid $750.00 for that one used, but as best I could tell, unfired. No box or papers, but that didn't matter to me, I was buying it to shoot, not as a collector.

It does that well.

Only objection is the same one I have for any S&W with Magna style stocks. A Tyler or a BK, which I've added to this one since the picture, fixes that problem.

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John 3:16 .

As an owner of 3 27-2 pistols, a 27-3 pistol and a 27-5 pistol and also a 627-5 Pro, I prefer the looks of the older 27-2 with the recessed cylinder over the non-recessed cylinder's looks. The gap between cylinder and recoil shield looks too wide to me on the newer guns. And strangely enough, my 27-5 pistol does have a recessed cylinder unlike the 27-3 and 627 Pro and in the looks department it hangs with the older 27-2 models for me. But as far as functionality and accuracy goes, the new guns hang right with the older ones too. I've also seen that they changed the way they finish off the top strap on the new 27 Classic pistols and don't use the traditional "checkered" looking top strap on the pistols. And my 627 Pro is just plain on the top strap, with no pattern or lines on it. It's still a great shooting pistol too and being stainless makes it a bit easier to care for.

As a range / nightstand gun, I'd go with the newer model unless you can find a used older model for a reasonable price. There's no question that the earlier versions will (have) appreciate in price better, especially if you leave it in the case protected and unused. Since you want to shoot it, go the cheapest route.

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So many S&W's, so few funds!!