I recently inherited what I think is a pre-27, but I'm not sure. It's an N frame .357 with a 3 1/2" barrel and nickel finish. Serial number is S 796XX. I believe it's from the early 50's, but could use some help in identification of it. Thanks in advance.
Pre-27?
- Thread starter MGC1957
- Start date
StrawHat
Member
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2007
- Messages
- 8,054
- Reaction score
- 20,358
- City & State/Province
- Ashtabula County, Ohio
Images would certainly help but based on the description you indeed have what S&W called The 357. At that time, the N frame 357 was the only revolver offered with a 3.5” barrel.
Kevin
Kevin
We would all love to see pictures if you could share them, including of markings on the frame inside of the grips and the inside of the cylinder (this can indicate if the nickel is factory or aftermarket). There is probably a serial number on the inside of the cylinder as well, so if you are inclined not to share it, that makes sense.
Your ",357 Magnum" probably shipped in late-1950/early '51. Here's a blued example that shipped in February of 1952 (# S828XX).
Welcome to the Forum! As StrawHat says, pictures would be a big help and it's fairly easy to post them. Sure sounds like you have a nickel ".357 Magnum" with 3-1/2" bbl. Your s/n (S 796xx) indicates a manufacture date of 1951. This model would later become the Model 27 in 1957 when S&W changed from names to model numbers. Without knowing its condition (both mechanically and its nickel finish), it would be impossible to provide you with a value. However, the 3-1/2" .357 Magnums are highly desirable and collectable revolvers, and nickel usually brings a premium over blued. Congratulations on inheriting a fine vintage handgun! Enjoy!
While we wait for MGC1957 to post pictures here is a 27ND to look at. S210404.
No Question, you have a Pre 27. I am going to guess it is vintage 1951-1952. A little "Light" polishing with flitz or similar product will bake it shine.
45NUTT
Member
OP, congrats on a great revolver and a fantastic inheritence. All of us are happy for you, and some of us (me included) are just a tiny bit jeolous. Also, my condolences on your loss.
Every S786XX Pre-27 serial number currently listed in the SWCA Database (10) shipped between September - December 1950.
Thank you so much for your information. This one will be staying in the family for sure. Any guesses on the value?
MGC, you inherited a very desireable Smith & Wesson. That is a beauty. Shoot and enjoy it and pass it on years from now.
richard.r
Member
Great inheritance my friend. Nice condition for a '51'.
Richard
Richard
gkitch
Member
3.5” nickel guns are pretty scarce and desirable. That said, the condition of your is not great from the pictures. Is the bore and cylinder clean? Is the action smooth? Take the grips off and see of the numbers match the gun? All may affect “value”. I would hazard a rough guess and say it is worth at least $1200 right now.
Sebago Son
Member
- Joined
- Jul 9, 2002
- Messages
- 5,693
- Reaction score
- 8,309
- City & State/Province
- Sebago Lake, Maine, USA
We LOVE short barreled Model 27's..
I have a couple of pre-27's but this one is the shiniest.
Jerry
Jerry
Going by recent auctions they will easily approach 3K and go up with condition.
I flubbed around with auction ending-time last weekend and missed a blued 5” that went for 1K by 15 minutes. Very good condition.
Ouch!
I flubbed around with auction ending-time last weekend and missed a blued 5” that went for 1K by 15 minutes. Very good condition.
Ouch!
Those 3.5" Magnums are beautiful guns, perhaps the most beautiful handgun ever made. And very addictive!
I’ll take the plain one in the upper left hand corner of your picture. PM coming.
Give you $100 cash for second one up from bottom, middle row. No questions asked!Those 3.5" Magnums are beautiful guns, perhaps the most beautiful handgun ever made. And very addictive!
Seriously, can’t imagine assembling anything like that. Incredible!
Isn’t the USMC engraved work of art featured on this or the other forum done on Pre-27? That was so impressive I lifted several pictures wherever it was.
Attachments
Richard, you clearly have an addiction problem. One of first things you should do is remove the temptation. I am sure there are several members here willing to help you in this situation......Those 3.5" Magnums are beautiful guns, perhaps the most beautiful handgun ever made. And very addictive!
Just because Richard is a pal, I'll step up to the plate and take the bullet for the team...I may even be willing to scrape up some postage money...Richard, you clearly have an addiction problem. One of first things you should do is remove the temptation. I am sure there are several members here willing to help you in this situation......
...Ben
I am so "invested" in his well being that I am willing to drive from Texas to assist in removing these barriers to his recovery process.Just because Richard is a pal, I'll step up to the plate and take the bullet for the team...I may even be willing to scrape up some postage money...
It’s the smaller S&Ws that make my heart go pitter-pat, but I would agree that a more beautiful revolver has never been made.
Everybody should own at least one.
I guess it's safe to confess here among kindred souls that yes, I have a certain affinity for them...
But I must say that among all the 3 1/2" N frames, my all time favorite has to be the .44 Special......Ben
But I must say that among all the 3 1/2" N frames, my all time favorite has to be the .44 Special...
...Ben
I have been able to control my temptations so far....
Pizza Bob
Member
Those 3.5" Magnums are beautiful guns, perhaps the most beautiful handgun ever made. And very addictive!
I just want to know if Richard would ever consider adopting me?
Adios,
Pizza Bob
First row, 5th down, would be my heaven! Any of which, would make you a star, to own!Those 3.5" Magnums are beautiful guns, perhaps the most beautiful handgun ever made. And very addictive!
Ben, the showcase photo I remember is the one with the .44 specials. Add this one to that and son, you done good!I guess it's safe to confess here among kindred souls that yes, I have a certain affinity for them...
View attachment 883859
But I must say that among all the 3 1/2" N frames, my all time favorite has to be the .44 Special...
Similar threads
