Model 27 4" As New

[mhg2tld]

How much is a model 27, 4" barrel, As new, p/r, and serial number 88xxx.
I found one for sale locally and was wondering.
Thanks

 

[WVfishguy]

Which model number? If P&R, it's an older one, probably a Model 27-2. The Serial number will have a S or an N prefix.

Whatever. M27s are pricey, often more than a grand in good condition, and, in my opinion, worth every penny. I just got back from the range shooting my 4" M28-2, made in 1966-67, and it's wonderful.

My 6" M27-2 is more accurate than my wife's Colt Python. Really, for me, the M27 & 28s are the best .357s available.

 

[Nightowl]

The 4" barrel is the most scarce. Depending on whether it is a S serial number or an N serial number, what dash number it is, such as 27-2, condition, whether it has original box, papers, cleaning kit, determines the dollar value. The 3 1/2' barrel was standard for many years, until the late 70's when some were made. The 4" could be had on special order at times before then. More information is needed before some of the experts here can give you an approximation.

It's definitely a nice catch if you can get it.

Good luck.

 

[aterry33]

Was he Model 27 always standard with a 3.5" barrel, and other lengths were special order?

I am curious as to why they adopted a 3.5" barrel on the 27 instead of a 4"?

 

[pace40]

Blue or Nickel? Box, Docs, Presentation case? S or N serial number? 27-?

All makes a difference.

 

[toroflow1]

My guess is that the original poster refers to a 27-2, since he mentions P&R and 88xxx serial #...although the serial # should have 6 numbers in it, like N881234. That particular model of P&R'd 27-2 4" was only made for 2-3 years (1979-1981) and is the rarest of 27s. S&W consolidated barrel lengths in 1979, discontinuing the 3.5" and 5" and standardizing on the 4".

If the 27-2 4" you're looking at is new or like new, its worth $700+. More if its got the box and/or presentation case.

 

[aterry33]

I am still curious as to why Smith started out making this gun in 3.5" as opposed to 4" like so many of their K and N frames at the time?

 

[BUFF]

Probably because 3-1/2 inches is as short as they could cut the 8-3/4 inch barrel blank they started with.

 

[fyimo]

If it's truly in mint condition I think it's worth more the $700. I think even without the box, tools and paperwork it would easily bring $800 to $850.

 

[perrazi]

if you decide to pass on it, please email me the particulars as i am looking for a nice 4inch 27. thanks

 

[WVfishguy]

This pristine 6" Model 27-2 came with the wooden presentation case and tools. Produced in late 1980.

I lucked out, stumbling across it at a gun show. The owner was liquidating his collection. I snagged it for $605, cash out the door. As usual, I replaced the grips, put the originals in the safe. I prefer smooth grips anyway.

If this were a 4" gun, I'd expect to pay at least $150-$300 more.

 

[dmar]

If it's truly in mint condition I think it's worth more the $700. I think even without the box, tools and paperwork it would easily bring $800 to $850.

I agree; a mint 4" 27-2, gun alone, should bring $800-$900. Of course, you can find them for less if someone does not know what they have, or are just looking to move it quick, but these guns go for good $$. Of course, it's tough to say for sure without seeing pictures to determine true condition...

 

[Allen-frame]

mhg ,you have a name?

The model 27 is the quintessential 357 magnum whatever its barrel length.
The 4" is the scarcest whether blue or nickel.

As to your question, (if you're still there) between $500. and $800. is a decent deal on an ORIGINAL 4" model 27.

The serial number will be found on the BUTT of the gun. And sometimes on the crane cut out.

It will have a letter, and 6 numbers, this will tell us when it was made.

Regards ,,AlleN-Frame

 

[mhg2tld]

Well, I got to examine the model 27, and it turns out to be a "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.
Thanks for the help guys.

 

[mhg2tld]

Excellent pictures and thanks for all the info.
Lynn

 

[Allen-frame]

Non model marked Highway Patrolman

Lynn, the last picture in my thread is a no model marking Highway Patrolman. When the cylinder is opened, the crane cut out has no markings at all.
A few of these are known in 6" and fewer in 4" .

If your serial # falls between S171000 and S182000 then you have one of these scarce variations.
Whatever you paid ,you probably got a great deal. P.M. me if you want any more detailed information.

Try and put up some pictures if you can.,,Good luck!

Regards ,,Allen Frame

 

[mhg2tld]

That is one nice collection Allen. 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. $365 out the door. Mine looks identical to yours and is in close to the same condition. Although it's not As Good As New, it looks good for it's age. I love the grips on yours. I will need to look for some like those. The recoil shield does not have a mark on it. I'm sure it has been fired but not much.
Lynn

 

[mhg2tld]

I have really got to find out how you guys make such great pictures. Such as they are, here are a few pics of what I picked up today.
Thanks to everyone for the info. According to the serial number looks like this is a 1957 gun. I think I lucked out today.

 

[Rush_Fan]

Lynn, I think an S&W N-frame for under $400 is a steal. Yours looks great. How many things look that good when they're over 50 years old? Congrats on the find and enjoy shooting it.

 

[mhg2tld]

Thanks Rush. I just took a few pictures that show the condition a little better.