I just gotta get this off my chest...

None of the performance center barrels do anything for me. I don't know how they supposedly enhance the performance. To me they look gimmicky, like someone thought slab siding the barrels would entice auto owners to buy a revolver. And the barrels with the extractor rod shows through the shroud on both sides reminds me of an old cheap High Standard revolver. And since I'm on my soapbox, I might as well mention I do not like unfluted cylinders either.

I guess if I want a traditional all weather Model 27, my best bet is to find one with an imperfect finish, then send it out to be hard chromed. I just want a stainless version of an original style 27.

And that goes for other calibers as well. Have passed up several because of non-traditional features.

Perhaps S&W could do some custom orders, being able to provide a fluted cylinder or traditional barrel upon special order, for their performance center models.

Good point... and I gotta agree.
Maybe it's their marketing to try something different (appearance) that doesn't cost too much or maybe even save a few bucks???
But the old saying, if it ain't broke, don't fix it comes to mind.

Agreed. I was beginning to think I was the only person to have a pretty big dislike for the slab sides.

__________________
Jim

"Perhaps S&W should do some Custom orders"?

LOL...in capitals!

I recently tried to get a simple, red ramp front sight done on my old M-28. NO Can Do!

I fear that our beloved S&W has been taken over by the Bean Counters. If it isn't "quick, easy and profitable" it is no longer on the "available" list.

I like the slab sided barrels on a few offerings, but like the FULL under lug barrels...NOT on everything.

Please! Go back to the old, round barrels on the 617's. WHY we need a super HEAVY barrel on a .22 is beyond me. though one of the slab sided barrels on a 4" or 6" 617 would be lighter and probably better balanced.

FN in MT

I never have gotten accustomed to slab sides myself, but I do like the bull barrel on my Ruger MKII along with the original tapered barrels. I just never figured out the appeal of a flat sided barrel, they just,.......look a bit odd to me. Some folks like 'em, so I say make what sells. Just don't make it an industry standard.

Sometimes it seems they go out of their way to make the guns as ugly as possible