Nickel-plated Model 28 Highway Patrolman

[Doc44]

The FHP guns shipped in 1959 have a regular (not brush) nickel finish, 5-inch barrel, and a 4-screw frame. They are stamped MOD-28 in the yoke cut.

The FHP also had a very few 19-2s with a 5-inch barrel and nickel finish sent for evaluation in mid-1969, but never did adopt them for general use. See photo below.

Bill

 

[rpv-ak]

Model 28 Nickel Finish

Model 28's. Great guns. My second favorite. S&W does not nickel-plate the rear sights on any revolver--always been left in the black. An "N" is stamped on the cylinder rear and on the left side of the grip frame to indicate a factory nickel finish. If those two stamps are missing, you can surmise the revolver was nickel plated by a 3rd party. If the revolver was returned to the factory for refinishing, S&W stamps a symbol, usually a star on the bottom of the grip frame or on the frame crane above model and serial number. Old Arms of Idaho has a Model 28 rear sight. I'd consider replacing the current sight as the nickel may hamper targeting. It is still a worthy firearm--provided the price is fair. the 3rd party nickel finish gives you lots of wiggle room during negotiations. Otherwise, walk away.

 

[ken158]

These model 28 nickel questions come up a couple times a year and no sense parroting what Doc44 has already said about the history of the FHP guns. Your gun or soon to be gun is not factory nickel.

 

[gunbarrel]

Please, read my initial post. I have no interest in buying this revolver. I have a factory nickeled Model 27 (see picture). A friend of mine asked me to go with him to a LGS to get my opinion (factory finish, or after-market refinish). I gave it to him and the Forum has concurred; therefore, he is no longer interested. Thank you, everyone.

 

[Golphin]

I have a nickel plated 28-2 I found at a pawn shop years ago. I have never ordered a letter but there are no markings to indicate it was done by S&W. Whoever did it did a good job though.