S&W model 27

[WP]

I have no knowledge when it comes to discussing a model 27- 3 & 1/2 inch revolver.
I'd appreciated learning a bit more regarding purchasing one of these.
Is it easier to buy one well used but stiil in good mechanical shape?

If I sent it to S&W would they go over, make any mechanical changes needed and then give it one of their best bluing jobs?

And finally are there better places to look for one other than just gunbroker?

Thanks for any help you can provide.
WP

 

[P&R Fan]

All of the M27s are highly collectable, and the 3 1/2" ones are really hot right now. You don't mention a dash number. The dash 2 and earlier are most sought after, as they are pinned and recessed. The 3 1/2" ones are going for a Grand or more in good shape.
I would not recommend re-bluing one, as it will seriously affect value in a negative way.
Jim

 

[gkitch]

Sounds like you are looking for somethng more "shooter grade", so buying one with poor finish and rubber grips for a bargain and sending to S&W for a facelift may be a viable option. I had S&W refinish a 5" M-27-2 about four years ago and they did a super nice job for around $200.

 

[colt_saa]

I can not think of a model 27 that I ever bought off of gun broker.

Go to Gun Shows. Check the pawn shops. Visit the For Sale section of this Forum.

As to refinishing, I disagree with the blanket statement "I would not recommend re-bluing one, as it will seriously affect value in a negative way" that is so common amongst collectors.

If the gun is in good to great shape a reblue will lower the value in a purist's eyes.

If the gun has most of it's finish worn off, who cares. You would be buying it as a shooter anyway.

I have a model 27 that I bought new, my Father's touch caused it to develop surface rust. S&W has refinished it for me in nickel so the incident would not happen again. It is pictured below. I could care less if that affects the selling price. But then, I have owned it for 36 years and have not considered selling it yet.

Does a few buck a couple of decades down the road really matter to you?

 

[E&J]

I found my M27 on Armslist. There were a few nice revolvers in my area a year ago but it seems there are becoming harder to find. I just bought a model 19 from a fellow member on Rugerforum.net and got a great deal. You just have to keep searching in a few different places every day including the classifieds here. I've never bought anything on GB.

 

[Art Doc]

Made me stop and think where I had acquired my 357/27s.

Both from a local gun shop:

From a forum member who contacted me:

From an out of state pawn shop after alerted by a forum member:

Purchased from a wholesaler back when I was an FFL dealer:

From a local gun show:

From Gunbroker:

 

[gkitch]

Gunbroker is a source for a scarce item, most definitely. The bids usually are a bit higher than what most of us consider fair maket cash value. Then there are the shipping and FFL fees tagged onto that. Buy local if you can wait.

 

[WP]

S&W 27

Thanks to each of you. You've given me much info. I'm thinking about spending up to 1K. I'll begin looking more closely in the places you've all suggested.
WP

 

[b.guggenmos]

I have had pretty good luck with ArmsList. I have never bought a gun I could not see and look at first.