28-2 refinished

bulova

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Got a lead on a 6". Seller says it was refinished and is now stainless steel. What do this do to the value? Also not sure how old it is. Not a S&W revolver guy and would appreciate some guidance.

Thanks!
 
Someone refinished my Model 49 in the 80's with one of the Teflon finishes in silver. It may look Stainless, but it sure isn't!

I suspect the 28 is the same way!

What does it do to the value? Not much as a shooter (maybe improves it over the unrefinished rust ball! But as a collector gun, it has none!!! My 28-2 4" was Mag-na-Ported and tuned up, it is a joyful shooter, but only that.

Ivan
 
Probably hard chrome. NP3 if you are lucky.

If it is well done, and the price is right, I wouldn't turn my nose up at it.

In the neighborhood of $400 would keep me interested.
 
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Sure appreciate the above comments and suggestions. I will pursue the seller and ask the questions suggested. I an not a collector and only want a 6" for target and shooting plates. I do have a 686 plus4" and love it.
 
A lot of guys just couldn't live with that dull finish on the 28 especially on the frame and trigger guard. ( I was one of them ) Model 28,s were the least expensive used N Frames you could buy at one time.Add an all weather Robar finish which looks like stainless was a popular option.
 
The picture does not show it clearly enough, but it's either nickel or chrome plated. If a carbon steel firearm could be converted to stainless, I'd like to meet the person who did it. I have plenty of lead that I would like for them to turn into gold.

As for buying this particular Model 28, if the action is nice and tight, cylinder indexes and locks correctly, the finish is even and looks good, then it is likely a fine, shooter grade Model 28. If the price is right, say around $400, then I'd go for it.
 
At least the trigger & hammer were properly left original. My 28 ,(original), in fair/good cosmetic and very good mechanical condition cost he $500.

We not know what the actual finish is. We do not know the mechanical condition. Round count - 500? 50,000? Who refinished it and why? Was it pitted to the bejeebers? Matching or Franken?

Too many unknowns at this point. All we really know is that is is a Highway Patrolman , and it is not in original condition.
 
Looks to me like someone simply polished the carbon steel. Done properly, you can just about duplicate stainless steel. Of course it will have NO rust protection. I would purchase it, for a good price, and rust blue it...assuming I'm correct of course.

I have no use for plated guns.
 
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Wow, I sure learned a lot from you experts. Seller says that is the way he bought it from the original owners widow. Does lock up tight and shoots good. I think I will take the forum's advice and pass on it.

Thanks!!!
 
One more thing to think about, is that the front sight is also refinished. The nickel or chrome finish makes for a very difficult to see front sight and as such is difficult to shoot.

Smiths with factory nickel front sights or stainless (like the early 66s) are the same way.

This one would have to be real cheap to develop any interest.
 
Wow, I sure learned a lot from you experts. Seller says that is the way he bought it from the original owners widow. Does lock up tight and shoots good. I think I will take the forum's advice and pass on it.

Thanks!!!

If you are just looking for a great shooting N Frame .357 magnum don't walk away to quickly. If it is in good mechanical condition and the finish doesn't completely offend you and you can buy it for a shooter price, why pass on it.

For me that price would be less than $500. If it can be had for $350 to $400 it probably is good buy.

These days any N Frame in good mechanical condition is worth four or five hundred dollars. Will it ever be collectable, no. But sometimes, having a great shooter you can toss in the truck, carry and shoot the heck out without worry about decreasing its value also has a lot value.
 
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bulova ---#18 by Mr Bates sums it up nicely. He laid out the criteria just as I see it.

One thing to add - You need to find out exactly what the finish is. You need that to make a meaningful decision , and I think that there are a few curious parties here too.

What is the finish , What is the asking price?
 
The stocks are aftermarket too. If they feel great to you, then that is a plus. If they don't fit you correctly, then more money to shell out. Good luck with your quest! Let us know how you make out. Bob
 
If you are just looking for a great shooting N Frame .357 magnum don't walk away to quickly. If it is in good mechanical condition and the finish doesn't completely offend you and you can buy it for a shooter price, why pass on it.

For me that price would be less than $500. If it can be had for $350 to $400 it probably is good buy.

These days any N Frame in good mechanical condition is worth four or five hundred dollars. Will it ever be collectable, no. But sometimes, having a great shooter you can toss in the truck, carry and shoot the heck out without worry about decreasing its value also has a lot value.

Gut wants $600. Saw one at a gun show yesterday and they wanted $550 for 4: Highwayman. I think I will pass on the refinished one and look for another one at the next show. Thanks again!!!
 
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I was guessing value in the $250 range as a "parts gun".

For $600 it should have good original finish and correct grips.
 
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Looks like they removed the blue with vinegar and then buffed it. I'd maybe pay $400 if everything is right. Any little tic's subtract per each. Any more just look elsewhere.
 
Standard model 10's with original finish, parts and grips ....... not those subjected to the Bubba treatment.

This is a common N frame with the least desirable barrel length, $15 cheap-o grips and original finish removed ... and .... Lord knows what else. Yes, a $250 parts gun and only then if you really need some parts.

Other people over-paying however, doesn't bother me one bit!
 
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I'd be in at $250 , and right quick - 'cause I know there would be line forming.
 
The 28 is a fine gun. A no frills model 27. IMO, 600.00 is too much money for that . There are much better examples to be had for that kind of money
 

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