Model 27-2 vs Model 28-2

[fyimo]

I started Collecting S&W revolvers about 8 years ago and I was in Love with the Model 27-2 and I owned every barrel length except 6.5 which are hard to fine in the 27-2 and easier in the pre 27-2 because more were made. I bought a 28-2 with 6 inch barrel as my range 357 and it was at least $250 cheaper then the 27-2 with 6 inch barrel. I owned both the nickel and blued version of the 27-2 in the 5 inch, 6 inch and 8 3/8 inch.

The past two years the 28-2 has grown in status and the prices have increased especially on the 4 inch with an S serial number but even with the N serial numbered 4 inch. The prices have gone up and now they have closed the cap in some cases to $100 -$150 of the cost of the 27-2.

The actual flagship of S&W revolvers is the Registered Magnum and that is probably the closest you can compare to the Colt Python.

 

[Watchdog]

$625 is too much for a 6" Model 28-2 that isn't NIB. If it were a very nice S prefix 4", maybe.

Allow me to introduce you to a "very nice" S prefix 4-inch Model 28-2...manufactured in 1964.

 

[azmick]

I think the s&w m28 is starting to have a cult following. I'm wondering as its been predicted lately here that the prices on the s&w m28 & m27 will approach the pythons prices. When will it happen?


The s&w m58 has a cult following.

Not to over state the obvious,, it already has.

 

[SLT223]

As stated the M-27 has a better finish, hand fitting, and top strap checkering. What no one has mentioned yet, is the "snob appeal" that owning the flagship Smith and Wesson revolver.

These are two different revolvers made and marketed to two different markets.

If I wanted a N frame to shoot a lot and tote around I would opt of the M-28, if it was selling for a fair price.

If I wanted one of the finest revolvers ever produced, I would purchase the M-27.

What's hand fitted on a 27 that's not hand fitted on a 28? If not hand fitted on a 28, how was it assembled? Aside from polishing I had no idea the 27's had hand finished parts. Can someone
please elaborate? I have several of both, and the actions seem identical. The only difference I've noticed is finish, and top strap stippling.

 

[SLT223]

Not to over state the obvious,, it already has.

No it hasn't. That's not your every day 28.....

 

[george_lehr]

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know what the actual differential in selling price was for these when they were new? Say, back in the 60s and 70s. Maybe 20 or 30 percent???

My 1969 "Shooter's Bible" lists the following prices:
Model 27 - $143.00, either bright blue or nickel
Model 28 - $98.00, blue only; $105.00 with target stocks
Colt Python - $160.00, blue; $184.00 nickel

BTW, Models 14 and 16 were each listed for $98.00, blue only.

 

[STCM(SW)]

For some reason when going out in the field, my M28-2 if I want a .357.


Not my 5" M27 or 6" Python......

 

[azmick]

No it hasn't. That's not your every day 28.....

Yes, it is my every day 28. It went to the range this afternoon. My nephew likes the 2 1/2" 19-2 better

 

[SLT223]

Yes, it is my every day 28. It went to the range this afternoon. My nephew likes the 2 1/2" 19-2 better

You can shoot it all you want, that doesn't make it a run of the mill 28. Try to find another -1....Marking a 28-1 value as 28 value, and suggesting that 28 value then compares to Python value is simply a fallacy of argument.

 

[Art Doc]

I must confess that arguing that the 27 isn't better just because it has a nicer finish and is prettier leaves me puzzled. I thought appearance mattered to most people. Maybe I am wrong? If so, why all the "beautiful... very pretty... gorgeous..." comments in forum postings?

True, the 28 will do anything the 27 will do. The 27 will just look better doing it. If aesthetics mean nothing to you then fine, the 28 is equal to the 27. If "pretty" has meaning to you then the 27 is superior.

 

[O2Guy]

I was old enough to buy guns in the 60's and 70's but I can't remember prices. I do remember our local hardware had a Model 28, Model 58, a 3 1/2 inch Model 27, and some Model 10's that laid in the gun case for a long time. Back then, no one wanted these guns. My, how times have changed.

 

[stmry]

It is of my opinion that the model 28-2 is developing a cult like following, as a previous post mentioned, because they were manufactured and purchased( on a large scale) with the sole intent of being put into service, while many 27's with their presentation cases were designed to be used obviously, but also, as we all know, for collecting and admiring. Add to that the 28's utilitarian appeal, and no frills design, its easy to understand their draw (no pun intended).
They have everything you want, nothing you don't, at a better price.

 

[ElmerKeith]

This might help to bring you to a decision:

Years ago I a was an avid fan of the M 27. I had two of them over the years. One from the 90s the other on form 1969. Both had the 6" barrelt.

But taste may change and if I had to choose between a M28 or M 27 I would go for the M28. It's just a matter of personal taste.

 

[azmick]

You can shoot it all you want, that doesn't make it a run of the mill 28. Try to find another -1....Marking a 28-1 value as 28 value, and suggesting that 28 value then compares to Python value is simply a fallacy of argument.

Just stating there are exceptions to every rule and that yes, it is MY every day shooter.
It amazes me the number of people that passed over the 28-1 for what ever reason (it was bought off gunbroker by the way) but I suspect it was because it was 'just another gun for the unwashed masses' (my words, no one else's) and because of the elitism I see here or some other misguided thought by those looking, I was the soul bidder. You can keep your RMs, your 'pre-27s', I wouldn't trade this one for any of them and will continue to shoot it, just as I promised the previous owner I would.

 

[TEXVET]

I see this same argument in 1911s. Some guys will not admit that a 1911 built by Springfield Armory can be just as good as something built by Wilson Combat. The WC costs a lot more, but does it really shoot that much better?
The same is true here. The Model 27 is a wonderful gun. It is a very attractive tool. The down side is, if you take it out an use it, you devalue it. The same is true for any S&W product. The model 28 is a working man's gun. It was designed as a utility firearm and to be used hard. Thus the name "Highway Patrolman".
If I have a chance, I will buy a Model 27 to accompany my Model 28. I will however not shoot it as often as I plan to shoot my Model 28.
What we have is the old Toyota / Lexus thing. Both are fine automobiles. They both get you from point A to point B. One just has nicer amenities.

 

[Watchdog]

Here's a hint every time I get into a new hobby the prices seem to go higher all the time.

So are you admitting it's all your fault I paid $100 more for my last 28 than I should have?

Tell me where I can send a bill to you.

 

[sac-gunslinger]

I am still puzzled over the phenomenon regarding the 28. Designed and built as a low cost, plain Jane service revolver a cult has evolved where many people are saying they prefer the 28 to the 27.

I worked part-time in a gun shop in the mid-70's. We always seemed to have an M28 on display but seldom any M27s. Most buyers looked down their nose at the M28 except those that wanted an excellent shooter. When we received an M27 with its pretty presentation box we had it sold before it ever went on display.

I don't buy anything that I will not expect to shoot, no safe queens, no glittering collectibles. I am the guy who will buy the gun with lots of wear on it because I will never worry about the finish getting worn.

 

[sac-gunslinger]

I see this same argument in 1911s. Some guys will not admit that a 1911 built by Springfield Armory can be just as good as something built by Wilson Combat. The WC costs a lot more, but does it really shoot that much better?

As a society, we have become obsessed with "prizes." Collectible cars, collectible cameras, collectible boats. Many, many people buy prizes so they can show them off to their friends, not to use them. An excess of available credit has short-circuited our cash-for-value gene.

 

[TEXVET]

I am glad I enjoy things for what they are. If a gun feels good in my hand and shoots good, I am not all that concerned about how it looks or how much it costs.

I must admit I do enjoy beautiful things though, especially women. But even with a beautiful woman you must remember, someone out there hates her.

 

[blue70chevelle]

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know what the actual differential in selling price was for these when they were new? Say, back in the 60s and 70s. Maybe 20 or 30 percent???

Prices effective May 1st, 1961.

For further reference,
Model 29 $140 in bright blue or nickel
Model 19 $110 in bright blue or nickel
Model 10 $65 Blue, $70 Nickel
Model 15 $74 Blue only
Model 36 $65 Blue, $70 Nickel
Model 39 $85 Blue, $95 Nickel

Target Hammer $3.50
Target Trigger $3.50
Magna or Target stocks of colorfully grained fancy woods (plain or checkered) $7.50

 

[ElmerKeith]

Prices effective May 1st, 1961.

For further reference,
Model 29 $140 in bright blue or nickel
Model 19 $110 in bright blue or nickel
Model 10 $65 Blue, $70 Nickel
Model 15 $74 Blue only
Model 36 $65 Blue, $70 Nickel
Model 39 $85 Blue, $95 Nickel

Target Hammer $3.50
Target Trigger $3.50
Magna or Target stocks of colorfully grained fancy woods (plain or checkered) $7.50

Very interesting, especially in comparison with these figures:

INCOME OF FAMILIES AND PERSONS IN THE UNITED STATES: 1961
.
(Advance data on the 1961 income of families and persons were issued In August 1962 In Current Population Reports, Series P-60, No. 38)
For the country as a whole, the average (median) income of families in 1961 was about $5,700; but for families headed by college graduates, the average was $9,300, according to estimates released today by the
Bureau of the Census, Department of Comnerce.

 

[vrichard]

This is what I paid for a mdl.28 in 1962.
Dick

 

[ElmerKeith]

This is what I paid for a mdl.28 in 1962.
Dick

But - where is the gun?

 

[Chukar60]

Do looks matter?

I think the discussion over the 27 and 28, is like discussing the merits of watching Anna Kournikova or Billy Jean King play tennis. Both top tier players, but………..
just saying

 

[BigBill]

I love all guns even the ones named Cinderella. I just purchased three m28's two are no dash ans one is a -2. I'm going to enjoy them all.

 

[SLT223]

I love all guns even the ones named Cinderella. I just purchased three m28's two are no dash ans one is a -2. I'm going to enjoy them all.

Hmmmm. Sounds like you're experiencing the advanced stages of "ASWAS", or Acute Smith & Wesson Accumulation Syndrome.

I was hoping a finite amount of gun safe space would curtail my ability to purchase more and more examples of models I already have, but my accumulation issue caused me to blow right through it without a second thought when it came down to purchase time. Now I'm looking for more 4" HP's. I'd like a 4" 27-2 at the right price, but they just seem too pretty to use regularly.

 

[BigBill]

The m28 is just as picture perfect as the m27 is. It's the same exact gun. I like them both.

I have ASWAS that means "BAS" buy another safe.

 

[MrTrolleyguy]

For some of us these guns are a secondary investment.

My new car looses thousands as I drive off the lot. I know my firearms purchases will increase in value from the day purchase them. And resale price is about three things: condition, condition, condition. Meaning appearance.

Will the model 28s continue to trail the 27s by just $100-$150? In the long run I doubt it. JMHO

Trolley