Pre Model 27 3 1/2 purchase-now with photos

[snipershot1944]

Jay Cee, my thoughts exactly. Mrs Van Orden actually named the Model 28 the Highway Patrolman, I understand. She and Col. Van Orden ran Evaluators Ltd.

 

[JayCeeNC]

Yes, the Van Ordens ran that business. I have a pre-Model 15 sold to an Air Force investigator complete with box, tools, and the receipt signed by Florence van Orden.
If you want, for $50 you can get a letter from the S&W Historian which will tell when and where your gun was shipped.

 

[nealinbama]

Hi All. Thanks for the information on the Pre-27. Mine is also 3-1/2" "S" prefix and 5 digit serial #. Purchased used in 1972. Was told it was an Alabama State Trooper's gun. Will the value be affected by refinishing the original rosewood target grips? They have taken some abuse and wear over the years. And yes, I plan to get the S&W letter. Thanks for your input. You guys know a lot more than I do about S&W.

 

[jhde69]

Very nice buy. The best part is the light wear. Now you can go to the range. I have one safe queen,only factory fired. I can't bring my self to shoot it, I don't know what it is good for.

 

[DGT]

jhde69: I know what you mean. I have a 99-98% that I will probably never shoot, it's just too nice. Fortunately, I have a duplicate that is about 95% which I shoot on a regular basis. I get a lot more enjoyment out of the 95% gun.

nealinbama: I think the answer to your question is dependent on how bad your grips are and how good you are at refinishing. Can you post pics?

 

[Florida Guy]

I have one safe queen,only factory fired. I can't bring my self to shoot it, I don't know what it is good for.

I'm through with safe queens.
I have an opportunity to buy a 27-2 3.5" nickel gun that would rate high 90's but I'd be afraid to shoot it.

 

[nealinbama]

Thanks for responding. As they are now, they detract from the gun. Have two small gouges that are too deep to sand out. Would have to be filled. Am pretty fair at wood finishing. Think I'll give it a try. Will post before and after pics.

 

[Mike Q.]

Greetings-

Good price. Interesting history too. Well done!


Respectfully,
Mike Q.

 

[nealinbama]

Thanks to Charlie. Yes,the stocks do now appear to be GA after light sanding. Did manage to work out the lighter dings with paper and a Dremel tool used sparingly on the deeper one. Also used the Dremel to remove the burr holding the escutcheons on. Different cutter of course. Have 3 coats of Tru-0il on so far. Expect to do 6 or 8 more, sanding between coats. Will rub out with 0000 steel wool and then use stock wax. Thanks to all, Neal

 

[Scott1953]

You will love it. I have one like it, great for any collector or shooter.

 

[sigp220.45]

Well, he's had it for five years now..........

 

[hardcase60]

IF he still has it? hardcase60

 

[ben_g1]

Ha! I think that would cost a little more today, and some say S&W are not a good investment.

 

[A10]

He has easily made 4 bills on that one.....