Just wondering what distinguishes a Combat version from a standard magnum.For example I might see a S&W Combat M27 or a 66 Combat.Is it the barrel length or heavier barrel, the
grips,or improved internal components? I have been around guns long enough that I should know the difference.Please go easy

I think the "Combat magnum" only applies to pre model 19's. In my very limited frame of reference, it was a spin off so to speak of another K frame in .38 called the "Combat Masterpiece'. So there are no Combat M27's so to speak. it would only apply to the 19, pre 19 and i suppose you could call the 66 a combat magnum as well

The "Combat Magnum" name was used for the S&W Model 19 and Model 66.
While S&W's go mostly by model numbers, some guns have a name too.
As example, the S&W Model 686 was the "Distinguished Combat Magnum".

The "Combat Magnum" name is on the owner's manual of my Dash 2 Model 66 2 1/2".

A Combat Magnum is a Model 19. A Combat Magnum Stainless is a Model 66. The Model 27 is just The .357 Magnum. These are just names given to the revolvers before they used model numbers. There really is nothing that distinguishes something as a Combat Magnum vs a ‘standard’ Magnum.

This doesn’t hold true for the K38s, K22s, etc. though. For example:
K38 Target Masterpiece (Model 14) – 6” heavy barrel w/ Patridge front sight
K38 Combat Masterpiece (Model 15 – 4” tapered barrel w/ Baughman ramp front sight

The names given handguns by S&W continue to be used long after Model numbers were assigned and stamped in the yoke cut. The "44 MAGNUM" is still called that by S&W even though it was assigned model number 29 in 1957.

Bill

I personally love the combat magnum

I know that some may take issue with the following but IMO the Combat Magnum, Mdl 19, is the finest S&W ever produced. Great shootin', great for carryin', great lookin'. What more can you ask for?
Pics to follow.