Highway Patrolman Question

[mhg2tld]

I went to look at what I thought was a Model 27 at lunch. Turned out to be a Highway Patrolman. It was in good shape for age. Not a safe queen. Here's my question. When I dropped the cylinder and looked for the serial number, it was not there. The guy said you would have to take off the grips to see the serial number. What year did this change?
It was labled Highway Patrolman. Did not say model 28 anywhere.
He wants 400 but I can probably get it for 350 or so. What year did they start calling the Highway Patrolman the Model 28?
Thanks

 

[st regis]

The "model 28" designation happened when all others got their model numbers....was it 1957? Someone correct me. But; the Highway patrolman always had the "highway patrolman" on the barrel, throughout its manufacture. If it has the target stocks on it, you will need to remove them of course, service stocks allow the bottom of frame to be seen. It's an old one if there aint no serial number under the yoke.

 

[Mack]

They started stamping the model number in 1957, this should be a pre Model 28 and a five screw. If in decent shape that would be an excellent price.

 

[mhg2tld]

So if the barrel is marked as Highway Patrolman and NOT Model 28, then this gun is from the 50's? So if it functions correctly, it should be worth $350 or so? Had some blue wear on the end of the barrel. But in decent shape.
Thanks

 

[Jack Flash]

"Beginning in 1957, Smith & Wesson stamped a model number inside the yoke cut of all revolvers." - SCS&W

The Highway Patrolman was introduced in 1954. So this one was made somewhere between '54 and '57.
If it is in any kind of condition at all, it is sure worth $350! Take a look to see if it is a four screw or a five screw. I believe the former (non-model marked) would be more rare.

 

[Jack Flash]

... So if it functions correctly, it should be worth $350 or so? Had some blue wear on the end of the barrel. But in decent shape...

No, it should be worth $550 or so... but don't tell the seller!

 

[jframe]

FWIW, it's essentially the same gun as the Model 27, but it has a plain matte blued finish instead of the high polish, and the tob rib is plain instead of checkered. The top rib does not even have a rib, just plain metal. The lockwork is the same as a 27, so in my opinion, it's DEFINITELY worth $350.00 if it's in the shape you describe.

 

[Jack Flash]

You did not mention barrel length. These were available with either a 4 or a 6 inch barrel. The 4 incher is worth more to some folks.

 

[mhg2tld]

It does have a 4 in barrel. They agreed to sell it to me for $350. Will pick it up after work this afternoon. I did not even think to count screws at lunch, but it is definately at least a 4 screw and in good shape for a 50 year old gun. I guess it will be an "S" numbered gun also. We will see. Thanks guys

 

[HAWKEYE10]

How about a update and some pictures of that model 28.
Looks like you got a real bargain. Don

 

[mhg2tld]

I picked up the "Highway Patrol" pre 28, 4 screw, but outside of some blue wear on the end of the barrel on one side, it is in very good shape. Really had my heart set on a Model 27, but I bought it anyway. I will get some pictures taken soon. It is a 4 in. blue with hogue grips only. Sure wish I had those factory grips. I will have to take the grips off to get the serial number as it does not show up when you drop the cylinder. Hopefully will get that posed later this evening and pictures as soon as I can. Thanks for all the input.
Lynn

 

[Jack Flash]

Lynn:
Sounds like you hit a home run. If you ever want to sell it, you will have plenty of takers.

I think the 4 screw pre-model number HPs are fairly rare. The four inch barrel seems to be a big plus these days.

Too bad someone put Hogues on it, but for that money you have to figure it can't be perfect.

 

[mhg2tld]

Well I couldn't wait long before taking it to the reloading bench for a little light cleaning. I took the Hogue grips off and put a pair of target grips that came off my model 29-2 and they look much better than the Hogue grips. Pictures coming soon. Serial number is S1764xx. It's not the 27 I was hoping for, but I am very happy with it for the money.
Lynn

 

[Allen-frame]

Hello Lynn. As I answered on the 1980 to present side , if your serial # falls into the S171000 to S182000 range you have a 4 screw non model marked Highway Patrolman.

Actually, besides mine, S1822xx, yours is the only one I've ever heard of.

It seems that most of the 4 screw N frame production of this era went to larger caliber revolvers like the 44 Magnum. OR ,if there was a run of H.P.s they may have gone into p.d. service ,and subsequently been disposed of.

Your gun is highly collectible in its own right, and should be kept in the highest condition possible.

Good luck ,and pictures would be nice.

Regards ,,Allen Frame

 

[needsmostuff]

if your serial # falls into the S172000 to S186000 range you have a 4 screw non model marked Highway Patrolman.

O BOY , Smith numbering debate.

Mine is a 4 screw, ser# s 183669 but it is model marked.

 

[Brian41]

I have an S serial like yours but in the more common 3 screw version. Mine has some holster wear but that makes it one of my favorite field carry guns as I can't hurt it by using it. BTW should you find an older S&W branded shoulder holster for it do snatch it up as they are excellent under a light jacket.
I have a much nicer 28 and a couple 27s that live in the safe mainly.

That 28 and another S serial 57 with some field wear get my most use and enjoying them is what I'm all about.

 

[mhg2tld]

Here's a few pics. Sorry for the quality but it's about as good as I can do tonight. They really don't do this gun justice. I guess I got lucky today Allen. As I was buying it today a guy walked up to buy it also. Sometimes it better to be lucky than good.
Lynn

 

[Jack Flash]

From what I can see, the wear appears to be very minimal. What a nice find!

I had to laugh when you said "As I was buying it today a guy walked up to buy it..." because usually, I am "that guy", just a little too late...

 

[29aholic]

You did well

 

[4864]

Yes, very nice find. I was happy to find a M 28-2 for $375. Would love to get a Pre-28 for what you did!!