Smith and Wesson S&W Model 27-2 .357 mag 3.5″ SA/DA Revolver 1962-63 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,325.00
LSB#: LSB260301RW068
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 27-2
Serial Number: S230376
Year of Manufacture: 1962-1963 / C&R (Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson)
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked with “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM”. The right side-plate is marked with the S&W logo. The right side of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas address. The crane arm has inspection marks. The crane cut is marked with the serial and “MOD 27-2”. The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 3 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade with a red insert, fixed to a ramped base integral to the barrel rib. The front sight has been hand painted white. The rear sight is a white outlined square notched micrometer sight attached to the top strap. The rib, top strap, and rear sight base are finely checkered for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are a one piece checkered ‘Presentation’ grip by Pachmayr, with a Pachmayr medallion on each side, and speed loader cutout. There are handling marks and scuffs. The checkering remains sharp and defined. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with case hardened hammer and trigger
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is minor fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In the opinion of the writer the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal refinish. There are minor scratches and scuffs along the metal surfaces. There is minor thinning of finish at the muzzle. There are carbon rings on the face of the cylinder, and a turn line forming. The action shows light wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear, with light use. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as designed. The single action is light and crisp. The double action is smooth. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Smith & Wesson Model 27-2 is a desirable C&R-eligible N-frame .357 Magnum revolver manufactured circa 1962–1963. The Model 27 traces its lineage to the famed pre-war Registered Magnum, introduced in 1935 as one of the premier American revolvers of its time and the original home of the .357 Magnum cartridge. When Smith & Wesson adopted model numbers in 1957, the deluxe .357 Magnum became the Model 27, retaining premium features such as the finely checkered topstrap and barrel rib, adjustable sights, large-frame construction, and excellent fit and finish. This example is especially appealing with its handy 3 1/2″ barrel, red-insert front sight with white paint added, white-outline adjustable rear sight, case hardened hammer and trigger, and Pachmayr Presentation grip.
This revolver rates in Excellent overall condition as refinished, retaining about 98% of its metal refinish with only minor scratches and scuffs, light muzzle thinning, carbon rings on the cylinder face, a forming turn line, and light action wear. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, minor fouling, and no erosion, rating 9/10 in this writer’s opinion. The Pachmayr Presentation grip is also Excellent, showing light handling marks and scuffs with sharp checkering and no rips or tears. Mechanically, the action functions as designed, with a smooth double-action pull and a light, crisp single-action break. While the refinish is a consideration for strict collectors, the combination of early 1960s manufacture, N-frame .357 Magnum strength, 3 1/2″ barrel configuration, excellent bore, and strong mechanical function makes this a very attractive Model 27-2 for shooters and Smith & Wesson enthusiasts alike. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY