Model 19 vs 27 shooting same loads

Willyboy · Feb 19, 2011

I went to the range yesterday to try out a recently purchased model19-3, 4" barrel and shot it alongside my model 27-2, 6". I was really surprised at the difference in handling with the hotter loads. Both were shot with a 158gr bullet and 4.0 gr and 6.0 gr of W231 loaded in 357 brass. The 4 gr load shot comfortably in the model 19, as expected, as this is a load I also shoot in a model 15 38spcl. But while the model 27 shoots the 6gr load very comfortably, the model 19 exhibited lots of muzzle flash and recoiled pretty stiffly. I was expecting the increased recoil but the muzzle flash really surprised me. I guess that extra 2" of barrel really lets a lot of powder burn up. The model 19 is LNIB so I will stay with the 4gr loads as I just do paper punching anyway.

chief38 · Feb 19, 2011

Willyboy,

The two guns are really intended for different purposed even though they are both chambered for the same calibers. The M19 was designed to be carried a lot and shot a little with .357 Magnums; mostly as a LEO's primary self defense weapon. The M27 is meant to handle the constant pounding of .357's and will stand up to any amount of any Magnum loads you put through it.

I have both and when I feel like making a lot of noise with .357's the N frame gun comes out. When I am shooting primarily .38 specials and might put a few .357's through, I will take the M19 k frame. Both are great guns and "must haves" for the serious S&W collector or aficionado.

By the way, the N frame is quite a bit heavier and larger so it will obviously be a whole lot better in the recoil department. If I were to carry one of these guns on a daily basis, but not fire them that often, the M19 would be my choice.

Chief38

buckeyeshooter1 · Feb 20, 2011

i have both. the 27's are used and the 19's are not. the 27 is by far my preffered design.

Geronimo Jim · Feb 20, 2011

The chief is right on the money.

Art Doc · Feb 20, 2011

Welcome to Reality Physics 101.

A longer barrel produces less muzzle flash than a shorter one. A heavier gun feels like it recoils less than a lighter one.

Who would have thought?

Doc B · Feb 20, 2011

The K frame model 19 is a smooth operating excellent to carry pistol. The sheer mass of steel,even in a 4 inch N frame model 27 will edge out the lighter 19 every time in the recoil dept.

dthughes · Feb 20, 2011

What about the Model 28 4" as a shooter? Not quite the same premium price of the 27, but very accurate guns with excellent triggers.

TDC · Feb 20, 2011

As has been said we simply can't force a handgun to be something it wasn't intended to be.

The 19/66 K frames are excellent carry guns because they are smaller and lighter. However, they can't withstand the constant pounding of maximum .357 loads and that is the sacrifice people who shoot frequently must except.

The 27/28 N frames on the other hand can shoot max .357 loads forever it seems without shooting loose. The sacrifice is a larger and heavier gun for carry.

We are so lucky to have a company who makes so many models, types and calibers to suit the needs and requirements for just about any use..

It's easy to make a positive case for just about any selection.....

JMHO

brucev · Feb 20, 2011

I adore the 19. It is a perfectly balanced powerful revolver. However, for shooting full-power magnums, a L or N frame is a better choice. I have and thoroughly enjoy shooting my 6" 28-2. It is a tremendous revolver... powerful and accurate. I must admit, my 4" 686 is just about ideal for combining easy of carry and ability to handle recoil from magnum loads. If you anticipate a lot of magnum shooting, you'll enjoy a L or N frame revolver. If you prefer to shoot .38 Specials with limited shooting of magnums, you will enjoy the 19. Or... just buy a 19, 686 and 27/28. Then just shoot which ever one you prefer depending on what that day holds in store!

David LaPell · Feb 20, 2011

The difference between the Model 19 or any other K frame .357's and the big N frame .357's like the 27 and the 28 is like comparing a thoroughbred and a clydesdale. Both will get you there, but the Clydesdale will do it dragging a pair of logs.

roaddog28 · Feb 21, 2011

Hi,
There is quite a bit of difference shooting a model 19 with 357 magnums versus a model 27. First off the model 27 was built to shoot 357 magnums all the time. A person can shoot a steady diet of 357 magnums in the 27 and have no worries. The model 19 is quite a bit lighter for shooting 357 magnums. Lot more recoil and not as pleasent to shoot as a model 27 or 28. I would rather take my 28-2 4 inch to the range with two boxes of 357 magnum ammo than my model 66-4 inch. I don't think I could stand shooting 100 rounds of 357 magnums through my 66. My model 28 I can shoot all day and not get tired.
I think that is the biggest difference in both.
Howard

Dennis The B · Feb 21, 2011

Yes, the load change will be appreciably stiffer. Your increase in the powder load was 50%. That's a real jump.

Model 19 vs 27 shooting same loads

Willyboy

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chief38

buckeyeshooter1

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Geronimo Jim

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Art Doc

SWCA Member, Absent Comrade

Doc B

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dthughes

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TDC

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brucev

David LaPell

Member

roaddog28

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Dennis The B

US Veteran

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