If you could only pick 2 ultimate classics

Wfevans4

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I’m somewhat new to the S&W revolver fever. If you could only pick 2 S&W revolvers that you consider to be ultimate classics, what would they be? Model 19, 27, 29, 686? Feel free to name the specific dash model. I’d like to add a used revolver to my lineup soon from the 70’s or 80’s most likely. For some reason, I really like the look of wood grips and a hammer mounted firing pin.
 
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My "holy grail" S&W revolver would be a mint condition Model 27 with a 6" barrel. I passed on one priced at $1200 a few months ago. I have a Model 28-2 with 6" barrel and would like to have a 27 to match.
 
Ultimate... hmmm let me think... maybe a 28-1 to start... then maybe a Registered Magnum owned by George S. Patton... I know they are almost Identical, but "ultimate" is a numbers game..
 
Since this is in the “1980 and newer” section, I would suggest you look for a Model 625-6, 45 ACP, Mountain Gun. Something like this!

(Those who know me are not surprised.)

Kevin
 

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Those of us who remember the 70's and 80's don't necessarily think of those guns as "classics", but if I had to pick from that time period I would take a look at the 624 and 24-3 in .44 special, or the 3" heavy barrel/round butt 65 or 13 in .357 magnum. Then again a model 19 or 66 (or both) should be in every collection.

Come on over to the dark side in the 1896 to 1961 forum and we'll talk more. :D :cool:
 

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Hmmmm...1970s and 1980s. I guess that I'd be picking from the blued or nickel Model 19s, 25s, 27s, 28s, 29s, 57s (and their SS cousins), and 686s. I'm mostly an N-frame guy, but I do appreciate the K- and L-frames. It really depends upon which barrel length and finish that you prefer, the frame size, and how the revolver is to be used.

OK, OK. I know, quit procrastinating and just pick two. I pick a 6-1/2" Model 29-2 and a 3-1/2" Model 27-2. Wait, maybe the 29-2 and a 4" Model 57. Hold on, perhaps the 29-2 and a 4" Model 19-3. What about a 686 Plus and a 4" Model 29-2? But I like .45 ACP so how about a Model 25-2 and a 4" Model 28-2? I can't do it, I can't just pick two.
 
I'm not into collecting. As a shooter, S&W model 60-10!
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Since you stated two, I'd have to add my fairly recent purchase of a S&W model 18-2. I like .22's!
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The 70's guns are fast becoming C&R as time passes, so to me they are classics. All of my S&W revolvers are pre-1982 and I have the best ones (to me at least) already. If cost was no object and I could wish big, a 3-1/2" Registered Magnum would be #1 on my list, and I'd like either a 4" M57 (1st year, of course) or a 4" M29/pre-29. Alternatively to those, a M28-1 if there is another one around.
 
Mine would be a 25-7 or 9 with the un-fluted cylinder. The other would be a 3,1/2" Model 27. Close that have a 28, and a 25-15, but not the same thing. Bob
 
I think the OP is being realistic. Sure, we'd all like a museum-grade Registered Magnum and a matching Triple Lock, but that's not realistic for someone getting into revolvers.

So, narrowing this down to "starter classics," I would get a 27-2 5" and a 29-2 6.5". Both are very shootable with wood grips, and while desirable, won't make you cash out your 401(k) or sell your internal organs to get them into your safe. Both have the option to shoot Specials as well.

Since I sometimes like to follow my own advice:

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I would pick one N Frame and one K frame from the early 1960s instead of something from the 1970s and 80s. Why the early 1960s you might ask; well, it is all about the stocks.

I certainly get the votes for the 27 or 28 workings mans version. Big but here, I prefer my N frames chambered in calibers that start .4 so, I'm going with 44, Magnum Pre through 29-2 with coke bottle stocks. You pick the barrel length.

Mines a 5 inch. I've owned a lot of Model 29s in about every barrel length. For carrying and shooting the 5 inch is a real sweet spot It should have been a regular offer.

The K frame is is the model 19 all day long. It is perfect in about every way. The early diamond insert target are perfect for my paws. I love my 4 inch 19s but honestly my 19-3 with its round butt and 2 1/2 inch barrel gets carried a lot more.

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Choose two? Only two? If I choose rare and wonderful ... I'll have to keep them pristine. So, leaving aside rare, I will choose wonderful! First, and I blame Bob Melick for this, would be a S&W Model 18-2. Why? Because he so very much appreciated and lauded the Model 18 for the woods and fields. Second, and for this I blame Skeeter Skelton, would be a four inch Model 586. Why? Because I chanced to read a little article he wrote entitled, "My Friend the .357." Enough said! Sincerely. bruce.
 
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