Seeking experience on pros and cons of 27 vs 19 357s.

I own a couple nice nickel 27-2 6 inchers.
Love em

Also have other durable more modern S&W 357s like 686 , 627 etc.
The ones I have kept r all great shooters and I do hunt with them (not saying I hunt w the nickel 27-2s not that I could not).
But I have plenty other work horses like Dan Wesson 715 & model 15 etc as well as 629 PCs and Taurus 44 Raging Hunter.

But would like a nice Blued Revolver preferably w 5” barrel but could live w 4” or Maybe another 6”, but would love a 5”
Have been looking at nice model 27-2 or No dash (had a Nice model 27 no dash and sold it recently at a nice profit but kickin myself cause doubt I could get ad good a deal on one again) but I didn’t want so many 6” barrels and it was 6 and I recently bought 2020 Colt pythons in 4.25 & 6, so something had to go.

So now I’m seriously thinking of buying either a new model classic model 19 or a new model classic 27 but I don’t know really how good the bluing is and other features compared to the 1980s era guns. I’ve been shy of the model 19s because of past weakness in forcing cones and potential issues.

The price on some of the new model classics appeals versus spending a significant amount more for an excellent condition model 27 Dash two or something with similar gravitas in a model 19. I intended to shoot the gun a fair bit, not a safe queen both to occasionally Carry Maybe to hunt deer but not necessarily.

Thoughts?
Experience please?

I also considered the 19 'Classic'. In the end I waited and found a 19-3 P&R in very good shape for the same money.

In my opinion, the 4" square but K frames in either .357 or .38 are the sweetest shooting and handling revolvers out there. You owe it to yourself!

I've read multiple posts on this and other forums with complaints about finish and general QC with various Classic models, but the sleeved barrel is supposed to solve the K Frame Magnum problems.

I decided that If I needed to shoot a lot of full house Magnums I could do it with my Pre 28 or my 686. My target loads are 158 grain plated flat points at about 900 FPS in .357 brass. When I carry my 19-3 or my 13-2 I load them with 158 grain factory .357 hollow points. I avoid light bullet magnums. If you weren't comfortable with that I guess you could load +P .38s.

Full disclosure: I've made similar decisions in the past: Before purchasing both a 48-2 and more recently a 57 no dash I considered Classic models. In both cases I waited and in the case of the 57 paid quite a bit more because "they just don't make 'em like that anymore".

Maybe I'm just a Crochety old P&R snob...

The only real .357 Magnum is the first one....

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Only difference Fool/Mule-ears

Personally, I’d skip the new classic 19 and 27 and look for a clean 28, but like your pythons, they only come with 4 and 6 inch barrels, same with the 19. If you don’t go with a 28, save for a clean 5” 27-2. I think in the end you’ll be happier.

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213th FBINA

K frame for carry.

Here's the American Rifleman review of the new Combat Magnum on-line, the sample seemed to be a very accurate revolver.

Tested: Smith & Wesson Model 19 Classic Revolver | An Official Journal Of The NRA

The Model 27/327/627 family of revolvers are just about my favorites

If the 5" barrel has lots of importance tied to it, then you have ruled out the Model 19

There are Many, many choices in a 5" Model 27. While a -2 engineering revision does give you the pinned barrel and recessed cylinders, there are other choices. BTW. from a nostalgic point of view, I love the look of recessed cylinders

If an exceptional blue job is one of your requirements, that rules out any of the Model 28s that folks are suggesting. We have the EPA to thank for ending the old blue process. Smith & Wesson has done some spectacular blue jobs in modern years, but for the most part that does not apply to production revolvers. Now the modern nickel (Heritage series or newer) is some of the best I have ever seen the Factory produce

Looking for a 5", 327 Magnum, blued revolver, I would be seeking out a -8 engineering revision.

Blue or nickel, the finish is very nice and you end up with an 8 shooter instead of the older 6 shooter design.

Now if we take "beautiful bluing" out of the requirements and a dare and durable finish will work, now we can open up the choices to several members of the Model 327 family. The Model 327 TRR8 in it's two tone version is very attractive, very durable and VERY accurate. Most of the 327 family of revolvers utilize a multi piece barrel assembly very similar to the Dan Wesson. This tensioned barrel system has been synonymous with legendary accuracy for decades

If the two tone look with the polished barrel flats and nickel parts is not up your alley, Model 327 TRR8 is most commonly found in the all blue version (remember in this case "blue" is just a reference to the dark finish and not truly meant to indicate older bluing). Also the M&P Model 327 R8 is available in the all dark finish

These 5" Model 327s all tip the scales lighter than a 4" Model 19 which makes it a great carry gun. We have the Scandium alloy to thank for that

Now you mention that you own Dan Wesson Model 15s. As you are already aware, the Dan Wesson is both very robust and accurate. Some of their blue finishes through the years has been spectacular and are among my Favorite blue revolvers. So I have to ask is there a reason to limit this choice to a Smith & Wesson?

You would be back to limiting yourself to a 4" or 6" revolver . . . . or some custom work to make a 5"

Yes that last revolver barrel is threaded for a suppressor. I was channeling my inner Maxwell Smart that day

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"Acta non verba"

If you are going to carry it much, or have normal to small hands, then I'd lean towards a model 19. Bigger hands, or a lot of range / hunting use, then probably the 27.

New versus an older model is kind of a coin toss. I have both. The newer guns tend to be made consistent, with tight specs, and are usually very accurate.

The older guns are usually better finished, but specs. like throat diameter tend to vary more. Most will be quite accurate once you find the right bullet / load combo.

Cost and warranty are also considerations if they matter to you.

Sounds like you have owned enough .357 wheel guns you will know when you see the "right" one.....

Larry

A 27 vs a 19? I’d go for a 28. I don’t care for the m19 it won’t hold up to full house loads.

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Plant garlic in the fall

I have been debating the Classic series 27s also. I will have a 27. But I have decided to wait to find the right older model for 2 reasons. One is that the whole reason I want one is that it is the flagship of the S&W line. The flagship should have the best paint job. So, I will wait for one of the older, beautifully blued models. The second reason is that I know myself and I would be telling myself I settled for the lesser gun and eventually I'd own 2. Might as well just buy the one I want in the first place.

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The best I can with what I got

First, you want a blued revolver and S&W's 21st century bluing is no where near as nice as nor as durable as their older blued finishes. The current blue is EPA friendly and S&W warns to not use any solvent that contains ammonia or ammoniated compounds, seems the ammonia turns this blue into a purple.


You said you would really like a 5 inch barrel. That rules out all of the various generations of K-frame 357's as well as the Model 28, leaving only the Model 27.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

The 5" barrel is my favorite length for a N-frame. It looks, feels and balances just perfect to me. I'd strongly suggest you look for an older Model 27. If you really want a 5", the 27 is your only option.
K-frame 357s make excellent carry or self defense guns, but for target shooting or hunting I'd much prefer the bigger L or N-frame. I had a 6" Model 19 once. Didn't keep it because my L & N frame .357s shot so much better.
If you just want a good shooting .357, you might want to look into the L-frame guns. I think these are the perfect size and weight for the .357 cartridge.
Honestly, I'm not a fan of the current production revolvers. But then, I'm a dinosaur.

If 5" is a must, or a real preference you have to get a M27. If 4" is fine and you want to save a few bucks, M28. If shiny is mandatory, you are back to 27.

Bottom line, I would go with the N frame, older gun, and get the barrel length you want

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Pete
I ain't no fortunate son

Considering a Model 19 Classic? This is well worth your time.

The new S&W Model 19 Classic ~ A S&W Armorer's Review - YouTube

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To cannon, all men are equal

I don't own any 357 magnum revolvers with 5" barrels, but if you could suffer with a 4", I highly recommend a model 28 (Highway Patrolman). Of course, it's the bottom one in the photo. The 681 and 66 are no slouched either, but the 28 is everything you need, and nothing that you don't.

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Every once in a while a production object which is essentially a tool gains the status of "classic" where form and function blend seamlessly into something that can be enjoyed by it's aesthetics alone. Musical instruments and even things like axes have their following. In my opinion, S&W revolvers reached a high point in aesthetic value in the mid 20th century. Every last feature falls into place perfectly. I think S&W did a good job with their classic series and they did address the forcing cone weakness of the earlier model 19s but every feature doesn't blend perfectly with the overall design. There's a couple of mustaches on the Mona Lisa so to speak. Times change.

Since no one else has mentioned it, and despite it not meeting the exact parameters you outlined for model number, either 27 or 19, here it is.

Around 2005 S & W produced a stocking dealer special - 686+ with 5" half-lug barrel. Mine is superbly accurate and a fine configuration. BTW, NFS.

Except for the model number, which to me would be immaterial, it has many attributes you seek, and a bonus.... Manageable grip size with many material/config options, an extra round of 357, freedom from the oft-cited forcing cone weakness of certain model 19's, and the desirable 5 inch barrel.

OK, yes, it is stainless. In a pinch, you could polish it and pretend it was nickel.

The first S&W I bought, many years ago, was my Model 19 shown below
on the left. Later I bought the Model 27 shown on the right. I sold the
Model 27, but still have the 19. That is an indicator of which one I like
the best. Or maybe it's just sentimental because of being my first one.
I also have a Model 29 too 3rd, so that made the 27 superfluous.

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In Omnia Paratus

Yes, there have been a few 5" 686s produced. But they are extremely rare and damned expensive if you can find one. I've never seen a used one for sale.

Had a slew of .357 revolvers of all kinds, including several S & W. My favorite was always a 4" Model 28 with magnas.

I've never been much of a fan of the 19 with 357, or the newer "classic" Smiths. I'd suggest a 27-2 (or earlier) in 3-1/2", 4" or 5", or a 4" 28.

Best regards,

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
...not to mention the beautifully checkered top strap/rib of a vintage 27, as opposed to the hideous attempt atop the Classic 27. The last of the 27 family to have a true checkered top end was the 627, 627-0 and the 627-1, but it has the new sight base. What's more the flagship shouldn't have any of the current external child proofing.

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213th FBINA

I would also skip the Classic models. I love the original 19 but for .357 magnum I'd choose the original 27. The N-framed 27 can withstand the magnum rounds while the 19 you have to be careful. The 27s are around but you have to go on a hunt.

Spend a little more and get a 5inch 27-2. They are beautiful Revolvers. Trust me you will not be sorry. From what you have written you want a 27-2 and you will not be happy until you get one. The best of luck finding your dream Revolver.

Since I’m going to die on the same day no matter which I pick, I think I’ll just go first class.

I had ten 27s, two 19s and one 66.

I currently have two 27s and the 66.

All three are keepers.

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Kenny
Endeavor to persevere.

The 4inch barreled Model 19 is my favorite .357 revolver. Never did get much into N frames although I do have a 4inch Model 29-3. Everyone should own a M29.

Part of my fear of getting a really nice blued excellent condition 27-2 or 27 no dash is that I would end up just caressing it and be afraid of shooting it based on collectible value, which has pretty much handicapped my 2 nickel extremely nice 27-2s.
But then again I heard an old man want to say” if you don’t shoot those guns and you keep them I like jewelry, do you know what somebody’s gonna do with them when you die? They’re going to Shoot those guns.”
Do Any of the L frame 586 have as nice bluing as old 27s?
I got to admit I’m a bit mesmerized and addicted to the checker cutting on the model 27s and I don’t really mind the size as I have other guns I could carry such as 3 inch king cobra and plenty of high capacity Springfield X DM‘s and glocks.
Whoever mentioned the Dan Wesson 15 Dash two it’s not necessarily that far off I’ve owned several of them and I never thought the bluing on most of them was great but I did acquire one as part of the set with three barrels for a great price that I will never sell that does have awesome bluing and 6, 4 and I believe 2 1/2 inch barrels
Just to confirm the model 19s do Mot have the checker cutting on the top is that correct?

I also think the guy who mentioned the 327 options I actually did on a 327 or eight but did not find it to be particularly accurate and sold it I already have a 5 inch 627 PC
So I’m strictly looking for a blue gun with a great finish could go with a 4 inch barrel I suppose guess I was just looking for something a little bit different if I could get a 5 inch 586 or a 4 inch 586 with truly excellent blue and it compares to the quality of the model 27 or old model 29 I’d probably do that otherwise I might still be leaning to a new model “classic “ 27 or 19.
The reviews online of the new model classics are so all over the place that I don’t think they are to be trusted the one that makes the most sense for square the old armor goes through and shows why MIM partsj and modern production processes can actually be superior to the old guns mechanically just because an old craftsman spent hours slaving over an older model gun does not mean the gun is better it just means the old process of hammering things out was much rougher and required a lot of grunt work on the guns that is no longer necessary due to modern machining

When I had a triple by pass in 2011. I had to quit smoking and could not eat a lot of the foods I liked. I was down in the dumps. I had my wife take me to our local LGS. There I found a like new S&W 27-2 5 inch barrel. Well I did not even haggle. I just bought it for $700.00. Well that was many years ago and I still have the Model 27-2. If I get to feeling bad. I get it out of the safe and I admire it. It makes me feel better. But I still miss my Marlboro reds, beer. I am alive though and intend to stay that way. There are more S&W's to buy. Live is good to me.

I miss the Marlboro greens.
I thought after having a heart attack at 45 I should quit smoking.






Here's my 5" M27-2 shipped September 4, 1975.
This to me this is a beautiful S&W.
One of my keepers.

It was shipped with smooth Target stocks and my brother replaced
them with these beautiful Presentation grips.

He wore this to his Police Academy Graduation and when he was
on assignment with the Secret Service to guard President Reagan
during one of his visits to Salt Lake City.

If you love shooting HOT .357 Magnum loads get a Model 27.
They live for them.

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Kenny
Endeavor to persevere.

I agree 19 for carry alot shoot a little and the 27 5" if you want to go first class

Cool post. Thank you.

Fellow hunter here and I generally use either a Model 29-2 or -3 or a Model 27-2. I don't think you could really go wrong, but for me personally, I like the N frame a touch more. It is up to you on preference. I have a good long-time friend that is a huge fan of the 19 and basically just collects and uses them for everything.

I hope the following will help or ease the 'mindset' and is just my opinion and worth the price you paid for it, but: Consider getting an older 27. Pay for it now and don't look back. Use the darn thing and don't worry about wear, this is now just a tool to use for hunting (like any other hunting gun).

When you get bluing loss, just laugh and say who cares. As long as you take good mechanical condition of the tool, have comfort with hitting the target reliably at 25, 50 or 75 yards...just run with it. You can always touch up the bluing if you really want; for yourself only, as it is not a gun 'for sale'.

Hope I was articulate enough with the thought process. Basically, a hunting gun is a hunting gun and any dings, knicks or scratches are just a part of it. Most important to enjoy your time safely in the woods and make memories and hopefully get rewarded with good food that you can share with family and friends.

Best to you and yours, TH.

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Rather be outdoors

Thanks hobbyist and everybody else and if I were to follow your logic though then I’d be better off to get a model 28 6 inch barrel
From what I understand mechanically an accuracy wise they are every bit as good as a model 27
Is that true?

But if I were going to do that I think I would just go ahead and get the new model 27 classic

I’ll check the auction sites and gun shops and see if something comes my way
Maybe something I have to let find me especially given how insane the prices are in the market for Old model 27s right now

I cannot imagine that functionally a new model classic 27 is that much worse but then again it all the pens on how much I want that 5 inch barrel

The only purpose built S&W .357 is the "L" frame..... period end of story.
When the round was first introduced in the 1930's S&W had to put it in the larger "N" frame (usually reserved for calibers starting with the number "4", such as .44, .45, .455 etc) because the K frame was not yet up to the task...

FF to 1955 when more modern heat treating technology allowed S&W to chamber the smaller "K" frame in .357 Magnum (btw the K frame was purpose built for calibers starting with the number "3" , .32, .38 etc).
In time they discovered that the K magnums Achilles heel was its forcing cone flat spot at the 6 o clock position was prone to cracking with light fast loads.
(IIRC the new K magnums have a different barrel frame design eliminating this weakness).

The "L" frame was purpose built to solve the K Magnum problem.

On the range the larger N frame cylinder spins up slower making it easier to control in DA IMO.

The K Magnum placed the power of the .357 in a much smaller package for ease of carry which is moot today since its now available in the much smaller J frame..

It's really all about what you prefer...
IMO the S&W .357 evolution high water mark was the 7 shot pre MIM, pre IL 686-4 , a close second is the pre IL 686-5 mountain gun.

The Model 28 was an "economy" version of the Model 27. Mechanically and functionally, they are identical. The Model 28 was not available in the wide array of barrel lengths like the Model 27, did not have a highly polished blue or nickel finish, but was satin blue, did not have the checkering on the top strap, and the front sight was always the Baughman ramp. Target trigger, target hammer, and target stops were extra cost options on the Model 28.

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VCDL, GOA, NRA

Another option could be a 5" 686 Pro Series, 7 shot. Great action! Yes, I know it is not real traditional looking, but that is why I traded into it. Bob

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I have models 19,66,327 trr8, and a pre-27. I have longer fingers, so I find that I shoot the 27's better because my trigger finger is better positioned. Both the 327 trr8 and the pre-27 have five inch barrels which is my favorite, and of course, the trr8 comes with a rail, on which I have placed a red dot, that I need due to OGS (Old Geezer Syndrome).

So the 327 trr8 has become my favorite .38./357 shooter . I also love the pre-27, primarily because it is a birth year gun gun for me. It is in great shape so I don't shoot it very often, but typically around our birthday! Good luck with your decision...

kas

A properly blued, .357 with nice handles and a good holster is about as good as it gets in the revolver world. Don’t compromise …

I never had much luck searching for a particular gun. I usually just buy something that comes along and peaks my interest at that time. I do own 3 pre Model 27s and really like them. None are perfect by any standard but are fun to shoot. I guess I’m saying don’t limit yourself, buy what feels right when the opportunity presents itself.

Choices too many choices. I like the 6” barrels in m27-2 blue, the m27-2 nickel. The m28/m28-2 in blue. Grab what you can for the right price. Grab what ever shows up. Life’s too short.

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Plant garlic in the fall

I'm not going to try to tell you what to get, I just wanted to say I'm pretty fond of my "Classic" Model 19-9. That's a fine shooting gun.

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John 3:16 .

If you want to shoot a .357 a lot I wouldn't get a model 19. I have several and don't think of them as a good platform for a .357. They're improved K frames and not much more. They make excellent revolvers for 38 spl or reduced .357 loads (38 spl plus P) however. Nothing wrong with that. The loads in my Hornady manual show 800-1100 fps depending on the bullet weight.

My idea of a proper .357 is something like an L or N frame.

Having said that my old model 19's are beauties and accurate like a laser. I've had them a long time and still my favorite S&W revolvers. I have others.

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That's just somebody talkin.

I am a K frame guy. shoot 357 some, but not all the time. 4 inch barrels are a good, all around size. if you want a healthier chassis, use an N frame. blue, stainless or nickle is a personal choice. just shoot the thing and have fun (that's what it's all about).

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ask questions- then shoot!

@OP, Sorry I have been swamped with work unfortunately and just had a chance to review.

The Model 28 is an excellent choice. I currently have one NIB 5-screw and a shooter. One of my favorites.

Opinions vary for a number of reasons but there is nothing 'wrong' with a modern 'Classic' line option and my opinion would be to buy with confidence. This hobby is an education and I'd encourage you to visit a large distributor in your area for the new or 'Classic' lines and check the ergonomics for yourself. Even better if you have a friend who may be able to help locally and the two of you can go to the range together.

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Rather be outdoors

Hard to pick. I have 6 of both.It is like picking your favorite grandchild.

I have a 27-2 5" and a model 19-4 6". I love them both. If you're going to shoot mainly 38 Sp loads the model 19 is a very nice revolver. I enjoy shooting that revolver more than my model 66 with 2 3/4" barrel. If you have smaller hands like I do, the K frames stocks are an easier fit.

However, if you want to shoot lots of .357, the model 27 is the way to go, IMO. It's more pleasant to shoot magnum loads with. Mine has some modified stocks on it that are smaller than typical N frame stocks. For me that makes a huge difference. If I could only have one, it would be the model 27, hands down. I also like the balance of the 5" barrel. It just feels right. But like the title says, "both is better".

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What could possibly go wrong?

27


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