S&W Model 27-2, 5 7/8 inch barrel?

[traub]

I'm not sure if this is the right forum, however, I thought I would give it a try.

I recently purchased a barrel for a S&W Model 27-2. It was advertised as a 6 inch barrel. When I got it, I measured the length, and it was 5 7/8 inches.

I have a Model 28 with a 6 inch barrel, and it does measure 6.0 inches.

I realize that 1/8 of an inch doesn't make a difference, however, I'm curious why some S&W 6 inch barrels are actually 5 7/8 inches?

Has anyone else discovered this same discrepancy in barrel lengths of S&W revolvers?

 

[clang444]

I have an old 4" 681 that is 4 1/8" long. It might be the threads and how much needs to be milled when the barrel is fitted.

 

[murphydog]

Yes, historically all S & W revolver barrels have been +/- 1/8", due to individual variability with manufacturing and fitting, as noted above.