Please help identifying a pre model 27.

[keithfan.44]

I have an old 5 screw pre model 27 with an 8 3/8 barrel. It has the modern type hammer and sights. The serial number on this gun is 162930. Could anyone help with year of manufacture and approximate worth. The gun has 99% of the bright blue finish and is mechanically perfect. Thanks in advance for your time.

 

[keithfan.44]

I have an old 5 screw pre model 27 with an 8 3/8 barrel. It has the modern type hammer and sights. The serial number on this gun is 162930. Could anyone help with year of manufacture and approximate worth. The gun has 99% of the bright blue finish and is mechanically perfect. Thanks in advance for your time.

 

[bettis1]

Keithfan,

Welcome to the Forum!

Your Pre-Model 27 should have an "S" preceeding the serial number (that is part of the official serial number and should be quoted when describing the gun) Number S 162930 was probably produced in the 1956-57 time frame but the only way to be sure is to request a letter from the factory. These letters are certainly worth ordering (cost $30) for a gun such as yours. The letter will tell you the day that the gun was shipped and the original recipient.

It's hard to value a gun without seeing it but one in the condition that you describe I'd guess would push a grand, maybe more.

Show us some pictures if you can.

Bob

 

[opoefc]

That serial number does not compute for a Pre-27 Look on the butt for the serial number and it should have an "S" letter prefix to the numbers. Also in the extractor rod recess under the barrel and on the back of the cylinder. The number you are reporting may be the assembly/work number in the frame/crane area. Values vary depending on when it was shipped, however and a pre 1949 shipped 8 3/8th in barrel .357 will bring a premium. A later gun 98% is in the $600-$800 range usually, and add 25% if you are in Calif. Ed.

 

[keithfan.44]

You are correct there is a large S on the far side of the butt before the serial number. So to be correct, the serial number is actually S162930 and I have discovered I am in the wrong section, I should have asked this question in the 1945 to present forum, sorry for that. Thanks a lot for the information and I will post a picture of the gun just as soon as I figure out how. This my first post here, I had to wait through the holidays to be approved.

 

[opoefc]

As Bob said,with the "S" prefix your Pre 27 falls right on the cusp 1956 ers just before they started stamping the guns as Model 27. Welcome to the forum and don't feel bad about being in the wrong section - We all make mistakes - Once I thought I made a mistake, however it turned out I was mistaken! Ed.