IMG_3385 by Jim QRB, on FlickrThe title of this introductory post was one of my Dad's favorite quotes. I recently had a chance to prove this dictum, rectifying an error I made in about 1973. My first revolver was a Colt Diamondback, and frankly, it was a dissapointment. Produced during the labor strikes of the 1970s, it had many flaws. When I recoverd financially, I sought to improve my situation by purchasing a S&W .357.
I wanted a Model 27 in the worst possible way, and oh, how I lusted after that high polish finish and checkered top strap. But it cost a princely $189 (if memory serves), while the Model 28 could be had for $120. For a teenager making 95 cents an hour, that was an extremely difficult decision. I purchased the Highway Patrolman, and found it superb in every respect. It travelled many and many a mile on my hip, and I have it today.
But just recently, I spotted this pre-27, with it's gold box and tools, and I was just as excited at the prospect of owning it as younger me had been 53 years ago. It's in very fine condition. The action was heavy, so I popped the sideplate, washed out all the old oil dried to varnish, and polished a couple of internal high spots where they would not show. Still heavier than I like, I narrowed and polished the mainspring, and clipped a coil and a half off the rebound spring. Now, that's better!
I've been busy working, and so have only fired two cylinders through this handsome fellow. But I look forward to trying it with Skeeter's old favorite load, as well as with some 140 grain XTP loads. I live on heavily forrested acres, and we have a healthy population of black bears. I enjoy them greatly, and they have never been a problem, but when I am sheperding our little niece and nephew, I need to be certain I have the means to keep them safe.
If I had the chance to again make that decision of so long ago, would I find a way to own the Model 27? Yes, yes I would! I've owned a barrel full of good Smith and Wessons, but there is just something special about "The first Magnum!"
Thank you for permitting me to join you here. I look forward to advancing my knowledge... Jim
...Ben
