Sitting here comparing my new 27-2 and old 5-screw HP , I'm thinking the 5in HP would have made more sense and been the perfect .357 duty revolver. The main idea of the HP was to cut cosmetic costs over a 27 so a cop or dept could save some cash. So wouldn't making all 5in guns would have made more sense? Does to me.

The whole point to the HP was cost reduction with the fewest possible options. True S&W lovers appreciate the 5" length but the average cop thinks in terms of 4 or 6.

What happened to VM's post?

The 6" was great for the mounted officer, whether horse or cycle, and the 4" made sitting in a car a lot easier.

I do love a 5" N frame though.