Just Got A 27-6

[EvenStephen]

Hi Gang,
I just picked up a Model 27-6 this week that was on consignment at the local gun store. It was marked "NIB" by the owner. There's a light drag line but no evidence of firing in the obvious places. I can't really be positive. No problem either way as I'm going to shoot it regardless. The trigger is sweet and I'm anxious to take it to the range with my Python for a comparison. It's got a 6" barrel and, according to the box, a target hammer. I paid $600 out the door. I hope I did okay. Can anyone tell me the date of birth for serial BSK43XX ?

 

[BUFF]

SCS&W III says Model 27-6 was introduced in 1993 and the Model 27 was discontinued the next year. Serial number chart makes that look like the correct vintage, too.

 

[EvenStephen]

Thanks Buff. Do you mean that all Model 27's were discontinued in 1994 or just the 27-6? I thought they went all the way up to 27-8 but I've got a lot to learn.

 

[BUFF]

Yes, all Model 27's were discontinued by S&W in 1994. The M-27-6 was the only one in production at that time and they weren't made in big numbers as large, heavy .357 revolvers weren't hot sellers then, and the L frames (Models 686, 586, 581, 681) were meeting the demand for S&W .357's.

The Model 27-7 was a "re-introduction" but was built on an entirely different, "taller" N frame. It has an 8 shot cylinder which won't fit in the previous N frame. It also has a frame mounted firing pin and the cylinder stop lug is machined as a part of the frame as opposed to an inserted, trim-to-fit lug.

Sometimes, S&W discontinues a gun and it is gone for good. Sometimes, they bring it back. Sometimes, some of the new parts are the same as some of the old parts, and sometimes they aren't. You can never say never with them.

 

[EvenStephen]

Thanks much for the info Buff. Seems kinda strange to have two different size frames called "N frame". Why'd they get away from hammer mounted firing pins? Looks like a much simpler way to build a gun.