Hi all.
I recently purchased a 27-2 in unbelievable condition. Could I have some help from all you revolver experts? Ser# S331***, 6" barrel, blue. It has 3 markings on the cylinder crane. They are a "1" and an "S" and an "A" (that looks like it was scratched in by hand.

On the left grip frame there is a mark that says "RE" with a circle around it. There is also a "1" and a very, very tiny "M"..also looks scratched in. Honestly, its so small, I can't really tell what it is. I purchased from the original owner who lost his permit years, years ago. He purchased on base at the PX.

Has the firearm been refinished? (if it has, it was definately done by Smith) The edges and script are crisp and sharp. Also, could I have the BOD? Im guessing the 1960"s. Thanks so much in advance.

Sean

Hi all.
I recently purchased a 27-2 in unbelievable condition. Could I have some help from all you revolver experts? Ser# S331***, 6" barrel, blue. It has 3 markings on the cylinder crane. They are a "1" and an "S" and an "A" (that looks like it was scratched in by hand.

On the left grip frame there is a mark that says "RE" with a circle around it. There is also a "1" and a very, very tiny "M"..also looks scratched in. Honestly, its so small, I can't really tell what it is. I purchased from the original owner who lost his permit years, years ago. He purchased on base at the PX.

Has the firearm been refinished? (if it has, it was definately done by Smith) The edges and script are crisp and sharp. Also, could I have the BOD? Im guessing the 1960"s. Thanks so much in advance.

Sean

Welcome to the forum!

I have a model 57 that has serial number S3193xx. It was made in late '68 according to S&W, and shipped in June of '70 according to Roy Jinks. I would guess that yours was made in very late '68 or early '69. I know that the change was supposed to be made to N prefixes in '69, but Smith kept on using S stamped frames until they were used up. I got some of this info from Doc44, who is one of the most knowledgable men around when it comes to N frames.

Welcome to the forum.

The serial number put it around 1969-70. None of the marks you mentioned sound like factory rework/refinish marks. Photos would help.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/e...0103904/m/3011047303

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Those are probably factory assembly numbers and marks.

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Thank You for your informative replies. I know I cant go wrong on this 27. I paid $350 for it. I knew he didn't realize what he had, so I jumped on it. I will never sell it, so I dont really care what its "worth". I just like things in original condition. Thanks again.

Dude! $350? Go buy the lottery ticket now

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Thanks!
Im so happy about this purchase. I love the older SW revolvers!
The guy was fanatical about his firearms. I looked at many others that he had, but fell in love with the deep perfect bluing, tight lockup and the one-owner history. Honestly, I needed a 6" 357 like a hole in the head, but I couldnt pass on it.

THIEF!!! Great deal Sir. Gald for you and slightly envious at the same time. Had a couple og GOOD deals in my lifetime and they're still with me. Best was a pre 64 model 70 in .270 in 1987. $225.00.

Congrats and welcome to the 27 fan club.

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Roger / SG

MaJeeper: A minty 27-2 for $350 is an excellent price. I got my 27-2 for $159, new in the box, but it was in 1975. I put Pac rubber stocks on mine for shooting, but reinstall the service stocks for looking at. Welcome to forum! John