327 NG

[ColColt]

I want to ask the obvious question about the 327NG. I've been looking at these and can't fathom why S&W(or anyone else) makes a 2 1/2" barrel for the .357. How can you possibly control it and with that short barrel, being an alloy frame? Factory JHP's wouldn't have time to expand either I would think. I don't know the velocity loss between a 4-5 inch barrel .357 but it has to be a great deal more than with a 2 1/2" barrel.

 

[GKC]

I want to ask the obvious question about the 327NG. I've been looking at these and can't fathom why S&W(or anyone else) makes a 2 1/2" barrel for the .357. How can you possibly control it and with that short barrel, being an alloy frame? Factory JHP's wouldn't have time to expand either I would think. I don't know the velocity loss between a 4-5 inch barrel .357 but it has to be a great deal more than with a 2 1/2" barrel.

I guess the same reason that there is any other snubbie...and there are those with shorter barrels.

I have a 327NG, and I like it....carries easily, and I don't find it hard to control.

I've had numerous snubbies (i.e., 3" barrel or less) over the years...Colt Detective Special and Python; S&W 19s, 27s, 29s, 36s, 40s, 325 NGs, 329 NGs, and 686s; Ruger Alaskan, SP101, and LCR (in .357); Taurus .44 Special (don't remember the model number, it's no longer in production.) I don't have most of these guns now, but I didn't get rid of them because of any concern with recoil, ballistics, or control...I just sell and trade a lot because I like to have new guns and I can't afford to buy them outright...otherwise I'd have hundreds!

Right now, I have a 3" 686, a 327 NG, and a LCR, all in .357 Mag. I don't shoot "hot" loads in my snubbies. (I also have pistols, but I assume you are just asking about revolvers.)

They are obviously for up close work, and ease of carry, more so than for target shooting, hunting, etc.