6" vs 8" Model 27

[silentflyer]

To each their own, I have an 8 3/8" Model 14,17,27,48,29 and 57 and enjoy shooting all of them.
Also have some long tube Dan Wesson's 8 and 10".

Only a 4" Model 19 and 686 and a 6 " 686+....

 

[zogger]

I can't buy both. I got some thinkin' to do.

Thanks for all of the feedback.

 

[Narragansett]

Can't buy both??? That is why Master Card was invented. Just kidding. After reading all if the posts, it looks like there really is no wrong decision. I would opt for 6". Why? Just in terms of resale. I think more people would be inclined to buy the 6" over the 8 3/8".

 

[Stirling]

RKmesa, I like what you said... " First: I'm going to let the photos do the talking...".

You set the standard, we sure could do with more from others...

 

[petemacmahon]

I would be one of those "not many".........if I lust for anything it would be a 5 inch 27!!!!!

LOL anything over 6" ...... get a rifle!

I'm with Steelslaver A 6" N frame can still be carried; if needed, in a Bianchi 111 Cyclone cross-draw or vertical shoulder holster.

Yup & Yup & Yup. I actually can't stand anything over 6" and consider 5" the perfect length for hunting and general field carry in a cross draw holster. You can sit in your pickup or in your tree stand with ease.

To me, 8 inchers are like single actions. I can never seem to keep them around for any length of time as they just don't get used.

 

[S&WIowegan]

Here's a fun fact about Model 27s. When bowling pin shooting was in its hay day during the 1980s, Jerry Miculek was one of the top shooters and he used Model 27 with 8 3/8" barrel. I don't remember what ammo/load he used but that long barrel dampens recoil of hot loads.

 

[ACORN]

I had a 8-3/8" 27 years ago and now have a 6" 28. I've looking for an 8-3/8" 27 to replace the one I sold. To me the long tube is so darn sexy. I guess I'm "compensating ".

 

[muddocktor]

zogger52, it's too bad you live so far north and I live so far south. I would have loved to get together with you at the range and let you handle and shoot both and see what you prefer. Maybe someone here lives up around New York can get together with you and let you handle and shoot both.

 

[GypsmJim]

In have two 8 3/8" Smiths. My favorite handguns. Holstering isn't a problem. I have custom made leather that fits both N frames.

My several 6 inchers shoot well too, but I wouldn't say they are better or worse, in accuracy or handle-ability.

My deer gun is a 15" Encore. That isn't a problem either.

I also have Chief's specials in 2 and 3". Don't shoot them much.

 

[STCM(SW)]

Had a 8 3/8" M 27 many years ago.
Just didn't seem right to carry for target or hunting.
Now, this M 27 5" is just right for both for me!

 

[Carrier]

Buy both.

 

[TMan51]

Reading through the thread, it seems that yes/no/both are a wash.

Most shooters that are revolver fans have a couple .357's. Of the barrel lengths in my .357 collection, I have but one 4", and a couple 6" tubes, (you can have my share of the 2" .357 snubs). To shoot them at the range I like the longer barrels best. Shooting a couple 8 3/8" 27's and 29's over the last few decades, they can take the bite out of even the meanest loads. Often by a noticeable amount. Shooting spots, or clays at long range on the berm, the longer the barrel, the easier it is to hit anything with my eyes.

If you have a 4" or 6" .357 now, the longer 27 might be the better choice if one is your limit. It might even be a favorite when you want to show the gang how good you can shoot