S&W Model 27 v 28

[SQLGeek]

I have determined for my next handgun I want to start looking for a classic revolver in .357 such as the Model 19 or 27/28.

In comparing the 27 and 28, I am aware of the differences but considering the premium that the 27 commands these days, is it worth buying over a 28? I'm primarily looking for a shooter in good shape that I would want to keep over the long term. It seems even a 28, especially pinned and recessed, will only continue to appreciate in value.

[Charles L. Cotton]

If you just want a shooter, then the Model 28 will be fine. That used to be the DPS-issued handgun. I'd take it over a Model 19 if you plan to shoot a lot of .357 Mag. ammo. The Model 28 is a beautiful gun, if it has been maintained properly. I have a 3 1/2" barrel blue Mod. 27 and I'd never part with it!

Chas.

[SQLGeek]

Thank you, Charles! I have read about problems with the Model 19 and magnum loads so I figured the 27 or 28 was the way to go. I think a 4" 28 pinned and recessed would be about perfect. I'll pay for it now but hopefully it will only appreciate in value.

[carlson1]

I agree with Mr. Cotton on the M19 verses the M27/28. I lugged a M28 for 7 years, but I prefer the M27. From time to time I carry a M66 2 1/2” Barrel. I just like revolvers.

[ml1209]

Either is fine. I'd go with a 28 - cheaper, and you don't have to worry about the finish.

[bagman45]

The first handgun I ever bought was a 4" model 28. Believe it or not, I found it at a garage sale. It was in nearly un-fired condition. Aside from needing a trigger job, I absolutely loved that gun. Shooting 38 special felt like a .22, and full house .357 mag was just a bit of a push. Wish I'd never sold it to buy a dang Walther PPKS THAT I HATED. Oh well, live and learn. Have considered looking into one again, but would buy a 686 well before the model 28, as the balance is better and it's plenty strong to handle all the .357 you would want to put through it. Wish I'd not sold that to buy a Colt wheelgun. But that's another story. If you can find one for a decent price in good condition, the model 28 would be highly recommended!! Good luck!

[pbwalker]

I know it's not one of your listed choices, but I'd add the S&W M65-2 to your search. Pinned barrel, recessed cylinder, and shoots like "buttah". They were made from 77 to 82 (if I remember correctly) and are a hoot to fire. I've shot some Buffalo 180gr bear loads through it a couple of times, along with a bunch of .38, and she's dead-on accurate.

[2farnorth]

I carried a 27 for a while when I was younger. Good shooter and heavy enough to tame the 357 loads a bit, It got to be too heavy on the hip. Liked the gun but it was nickel plated and did I mention----- heavy. It's now a night stand/closet gun. Also had to change out the wood stocks to Hogue finger grooved grips. My fingers are not long enough for the factory wood.
The only 28 I handled was comparable. If price were the primary consideration then the 28 would be ok.

[LDB415]

Wearing a blindfold you probably couldn't tell the difference. I'd be 100% happy if someone gave me either one.

[ml1209]

I'd go with the 28. Lately I've been more about function and practicality when it comes to guns. No precious safe queens.

[flechero]

I'll pay for it now but hopefully it will only appreciate in value.

Other than in VERY limited circumstances, the only real appreciation a good shooting handgun gets, if from the shooter.

[WTR]

If you want a beautiful heirloom by the 27. If you want a truck/range gun buy the 28. I've had the 28 in a DPS trade in with a 4" barrel. Girl friend stole it. I miss the 28 not the girl. I still have a 27 5"......heaven and beauty. I'll not part with that one.

[The Annoyed Man]

If you want a beautiful heirloom by the 27. If you want a truck/range gun buy the 28. I've had the 28 in a DPS trade in with a 4" barrel. Girl friend stole it. I miss the 28 not the girl. I still have a 27 5"......heaven and beauty. I'll not part with that one.

Not to sidetrack the conversation, but if they are N-Framed guns, then your 5” 27 should weigh about the same as my 5” 29. If so, that is a heavy beast of a gun. OTH, +P .44 Specials shoot a lot softer than full house .44 mags, and are still an effective choice. I would imagine that .38 Specials in your 5” 27 would be like shooting .22 shorts.

[WTR]

Wad cutters are a joy.

[SQLGeek]

At the prices 28s are running, it definitely wouldn't be a truck gun. ;)

My eye has wandered lately to a .22 pistol. I've found with the Tin Can Alley at PSC, the .22 is a lot more fun than I had previously given it credit for. And it's hard to beat the price of ammo right now.

Alas the 27 or 28 is too much cheddar for my interest at this point. I still want one but it's going to be something I keep in mind for down the road.

As it stands now, I think a Ruger MK IV Lite is calling my name.