pre 27 grip question

[kconjack]

Hey guys,

New to the forum here, thanks for having me. I recently stumbled into a beautiful 3.5 inch pre-27 revolver that I think is in great shape. It was advertised being "pre-lock" Model 27 and that was enough to draw my interest. After getting it in my hands and looking up the serial number, I came to find out that it was more than just a pre lock but it was in fact a pre-27 from late '52 to early '53. It was a very pleasant surprise.

I knew that this gun was coming without the original grips. To be honest, I am not crazy about the ones that came on it and I am looking for swamp them out. My question for all you experts is, do I gain any value by trying to find a set of grips that would match what should have been on the gun? Or since the grips aren't original and won't be numbered to match the gun, does it matter if I have proper time period grips? I have come across a few newer N frame grips that have nice S&W inlays that I think would look awesome with the case hardened hammer and trigger on this pistol. I just didn't know if it would be considered blasphemy to do such a thing and really hurt the value of the gun.

I appreciate everyone's input and opinion.

 

[s&wchad]

Welcome aboard!

Period correct stocks would be my choice. You should get a pair, even if you decide to shoot the gun with different stocks. They won't get any cheaper!

 

[sodacan]

Personally I like to have period correct stocks on my revolvers. The Magnas that are period correct for that model look great, but may not be the best for shooting. I generally don't shoot with them. With that being said, you should get what you like. Also keep in mind that the period correct stocks will not be cheap. BTW, you bought one of the most iconic and beautiful guns that S&W ever produced. Enjoy!

 

[kconjack]

Thanks for the replies guys. I was thinking period correct is the direction I should go but just a quick look on eBay for a decent set of Magnas and you aren't kidding they won't be cheap. I just got this gun in my hands yesterday so I haven't been looking too hard, but I have a feeling it won't be easy getting a good deal on some.

In reality, I won't ever be selling this gun so I am not too concerned with overall value. But there is something to be said to having anything period correct.

 

[weatherby]

Hi and welcome
Your question is really a bunch of questions with variable answers .

The originals are always great to have.
Period correct is very close.
To me others could trump original ones.
Really nice stag, Cokes, Ropers or Sanderson etc.
Trading one non correct for another probably won't affect your value one way or another..

It's not blasphemy it's your gun.
I'm a grip junkie and in your case would probably go with stag.

 

[kconjack]

Stag may not be a bad idea. I currently have the grips of it to give it a good cleaning and oil everything good. I attached a picture because who doesn't like looking at a 3.5 inch pre-27. The bluing is on great shape, picture doesn't really do it justice. There is currently a heavy coat of oil on it so disregard the streaking.

 

[Retired W4]

Another choice for period correct are non-relieved targets, which were the only N targets of the time period.

 

[Frailer]

I greatly prefer a vintage gun to have its original stocks, numbered to the gun.

Lacking the originals, I’d prefer the gun to have stags or older custom grips from a known maker.

Period-correct originals are third in line, but *for me* they don’t add appreciably to the gun’s value over quality aftermarket replacements. Others’ mileage may vary.

 

[kconjack]

Another choice for period correct are non-relieved targets, which were the only N targets of the time period.

Not sure I've seen non-relieved targets on a pre-27, I will have to look into that. The grips that came on this gun are some sort of target grips, they don't have the S&W medallion so I am assuming they are aftermarket.

 

[kconjack]

I greatly prefer a vintage gun to have its original stocks, numbered to the gun.

Lacking the originals, I’d prefer the gun to have stags or older custom grips from a known maker.

Period-correct originals are third in line, but *for me* they don’t add appreciably to the gun’s value over quality aftermarket replacements. Others’ mileage may vary.

Any idea on how to tell if custom grips are from a known maker? I'm assuming there would be some sort of a stamp or marking.

 

[Vtgw938]

OP:

Post some pics and I'm sure someone can ID them. I'd go with a set of correct magnas, non-relieved targets and a set of custom period correct stocks like Sanderson. That way you have any flavor you want! The classifieds here is a good source, just give it some time.

 

[weatherby]

Any idea on how to tell if custom grips are from a known maker? I'm assuming there would be some sort of a stamp or marking.

Don't assume post pictures and ask
Both of the inside and outside of the grips is important.
As an aside most don't

 

[kconjack]

Here are the grips that came on it. Let me know if anyone knows anything about them.

And thanks for all the info guys, it's been real helpful.

 

[Vtgw938]

Check out this thread:

https://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-h...y-stock-thread.html?highlight=kearsarge+grips

 

[Nightowl]

I have no idea who made them, but they look like nicely made stocks made for single action shooting, which was the common method of shooting when the gun was made. Since I do not like shooting with Magna stocks, I replace them on my shooting guns and I find them laying around every where in the way in my "reloading room"! I hope the son has the patience to get them to the right gun!! Someday. I would put what ever stock I like for shooting and just use it for what it was intended.

By the way, nice find. That is one fine gun and great fun to shoot!

 

[Gun Relics]

Here are the grips that came on it. Let me know if anyone knows anything about them.

And thanks for all the info guys, it's been real helpful.

First of all, good score.

Personally I would just keep those stocks. They look nice, whatever brand they are and I am confident somebody will recognize them. They have a nice S & W custom flair.

N Frame Magna Diamonds are not exactly rare, not special unless original and numbered to the gun and not expensive compared to the $400 - $500 ++ people are paying for other customs and targets.

If you were to sell it in the future, someone will always be able to replace the magnas. Most of us collectors keep extras on hand for just such an occasion.

 

[StrawHat]

Magnas and Service stocks were numbered to the revolver as they were hand fitted to that particular frame. Only rarely was a target stock numbered to the frame because they did not need the hand fitting.

The way I see it, if the revolver originally shipped with a target stock, a period correct variation would be acceptable.

But, a 3 1/2” barrel probably did not ship with target stocks.

Personally, for shooting, I prefer Magnas with a grip adapter.

Those are all smooth elk, which is my preference but other materials are available.

Maple, ivory, walnut, and many others.

Kevin

 

[kconjack]

Check out this thread:

https://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-h...y-stock-thread.html?highlight=kearsarge+grips

Thanks for the thread. I guess I'll have to do a little digging but they are probably Roper? I didn't really see anything that said that's what they were for sure.

 

[series guy]

Pre Model 27s. The stocks do not number but I like them. I think the stocks that came with the gun are perfect. I would never replace them.

 

[kconjack]

Keeping the stocks it came with are still on the table. Especially if they are period correct. I just thought that they covered up a lot of that gorgeous bluing, it even covers half of the S&W stamp. Here is what it looks like with the stock on it. Let me know what you guys think.