The Model 28 was modified by Dave Chicoine, using the 6" barrel. I asked him to use the original front sight and install a red insert in it also, and he did an amazing job. All I did was send him the barrel, I removed and re-installed it once the work was done.
My 5" 27-2 is actually the worst conditioned revolver I own. It has plenty of bluing loss, a couple of pit marks here and there, and been there and done that target stocks. I bought it for cheap and really cleaned it up to where it is beyond awesome. I shoot it all the time with whatever load I feel like, and it is still tight as a bank vault.
It is the opposite of a safe queen, but it would be tough for me to let go of it. The picture makes it look cleaner than it actually is.
All I can say is that I'm really envious of you guys! I had the opportunity to swap my 4" Highway Patrolman for a M27 but I passed it up because I knew what had. That said, I just find the 5" S&W N-frames absolutely irresistible!!! Your 5" model 27s are fantastic! Thank you all for sharing your pics!
I found this lightly used M27-2 five inch in an LGS wearing ugly Goodyears. Found it had the original Target Stocks too.
The gun has some odd bluing loss in a freckle pattern on the right side like some chemical spray landed on the barrel. No rust. Shoots like a dream and was priced right to boot.
Theres a sticky over on the 'castboolits forum' by a guy who has put 75,000 rds thru his 5'' Mod 27-2. Lotsa pix and great reading. l have a 5 inch and love it