Smith & Wesson Pre Model 27 3.5"

[JLove008]

Just acquired a Smith & Wesson Pre Model 27 3.5" 5-screw on GB. It’s one that I’ve had on my list to add to my collection for some time now. Can’t wait to get my hands on it and give it a good cleaning and possibly some very minor touch ups. It’s certainly not 100%, but it’s definitely a great addition. The LOA and period correct box will be in order as well. Looking forwarding to gaining some knowledge on the history of this particular one.

 

[schutz5]

I'll say!
Can't get any better!

 

[CH4]

Congrats on a classic piece. You’re lucky yours doesn’t have infamous crud oozing from under the front sight. My pre 27, unfortunately, is one of the many that does. She’s a great carry piece.

 

[diecidecimi]

Congrats on a classic piece. You’re lucky yours doesn’t have infamous crud oozing from under the front sight. My pre 27, unfortunately, is one of the many that does. She’s a great carry piece.

Wait wait wait.... CH4, you're opening a window in my nightmares! My pre-27 3.5" has the same pitting along the rib, under the front sight.
I always wondered why, and someone said me it is an issue caused by the material used to weld it, assembling the gun.
Previously I thought it was my fault, a rust pitting neglected....could you please educate me about this issue, considering you are aware of; is it common and why?
thx a lot

Giorgio

Edit: I watched the pics of th OP Pre 27: even in this case I can see the issue on left side of the rib

 

[CH4]

From what I understand it was a problem with the bluing salts used in the 50s. They would get trapped between the sight and rib and ooze out, causing rust and pitting. Hopefully someone will correct me if I am wrong.

 

[Hawg Rider]

I believe that CH4 has correctly identified the issue. I haven't seen that problem with my .357 Magnums, but I do have a 1954 Highway Patrolman with that same problem. Several Forum members have commented about that problem on the early HPs. Nothing can be done about it without refinishing, but it doesn't seem to have gotten any worse over the years.

 

[mojave30cal]

Very nice. Welcome to the pre-27 3 1/2" owner's club. :)

 

[James K]

I'm looking at a pre-27 with 5" barrel but it has a pinned front sight. Is that factory or replacement?

 

[Narragansett]

Beautiful gun OP. If touching up a few places means cold blue, I would not do that. Best to leave it as is and enjoy IMO:)

 

[RKmesa]

I'm looking at a pre-27 with 5" barrel but it has a pinned front sight.

Is that factory or replacement?

Looks original to me. I love the pre-27s with the proud front sight pins. :cool:

 

[ronnymc204]

Congratulations! I was watching that auction. Glad someone on the forum won. Enjoy.

 

[John Patrick]

Good looking revolver. Congrats!

 

[Nightowl]

That sure is a beauty. Happy shooting! I just love those .357 Magnums from the early 50s! They will shoot forever!

 

[JLove008]

Extremely pleased with the condition of the pre 27. It has some honest holster wear on the cylinder and the end of the barrel, but overall in good shape. Matching S/N on frame, cylinder and barrel. Looking forward to sending a LOA request on Monday. Hopefully, I can find a correct box that doesn’t cost an arm and leg.

 

[JLove008]

Could someone shed some light on the following numbers, possibly an inspectors mark? Both match on the frame and crane.

 

[snw19_357]

80220 is the assembly number, the others fitter or inspector marks.

 

[JLove008]

Thank you sir. I appreciate the information

80220 is the assembly number, the others fitter or inspector marks.

 

[JLove008]

Extremely pleased with the information and turnaround time provided by Mr. Mundell. The pre 27 was shipped to Rex Firearms Company on February 7, 1956. The invoice “shows it was for the city of Detroit Michigan PD. It was billed at $73.32.” It’s another great piece of history that I’m proud to add to the collection.

 

[boykinlp]

Extremely pleased with the information and turnaround time provided by Mr. Mundell. The pre 27 was shipped to Rex Firearms Company on February 7, 1956. The invoice “shows it was for the city of Detroit Michigan PD. It was billed at $73.32.” It’s another great piece of history that I’m proud to add to the collection.

How COOL is that? Pick up a pre 27 on GB, and hit the jackpot, to me anyway, when the letter comes back with a LEO connection. Pretty awesome to me! Now, if you can just find out who carried it.
Larry