Smith and Wesson S&W Model 27-2 .357 Magnum 5″ SA/DA Revolver 1975-76
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: LSB260611JS066
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 27-2 .357 Magnum
Serial Number: N361942
Year of Manufacture: 1975-1976 (Standard Catalog of Smith and Wesson)
Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SMITH & WESSON”. The right side of the barrel is marked “S.&W. 357 MAGNUM”. The right side plate is marked with the S&W monogram, and the right side of the frame is marked with the four-line Marcas Registradas. The crane cut is marked with the serial number and “MOD. 27-2”. The crane arm and the interior grip strap are marked with assembly numbers. The butt is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 5″, Pinned
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp atop a ramped rib fixed at the muzzle. The rear sight is a square notch leaf set in a micrometer click base and is adjustable for windage and elevation. The top of the rib and the topstrap are finely checkered for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered Goncalo Alves target stocks with S&W medallions at the top, and an extractor relief. There are minor handling scuffs. The checkering remains sharp with minor peak loss. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with case hardened hammer and trigger
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is minor fouling in the grooves. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is minor wear at the muzzle. There is a drag line along the right side of the rib. There is minor operational wear along the action. There is a thin turn line on the cylinder. The case-color remains vibrant. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and legible. 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. The lockup is tight with little to no play at each chamber. 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: Display case w/cleaning kit and paperwork.
Our Assessment: The Smith & Wesson Model 27 represents the direct descendant of the revolver that introduced the .357 Magnum cartridge in 1935. Originally marketed simply as the “.357 Magnum,” the premium N-frame revolver became the Model 27 when Smith & Wesson adopted numerical model designations in 1957. Its finely polished blue finish, checkered topstrap and barrel rib, adjustable sights, and carefully fitted action distinguished it from the more utilitarian Model 28 Highway Patrolman. The Model 27-2 was introduced in 1961-1962 and became one of the longest-lived engineering variations, retaining the traditional pinned barrel and recessed Magnum chambers. In 1975, Smith & Wesson further upgraded the Model 27 with target stocks, target hammer and trigger, and presentation-case packaging as standard equipment. The 5″ barrel remains one of the most desirable configurations, offering excellent balance while preserving the substantial proportions and classic appearance of Smith & Wesson’s flagship .357 Magnum.
This Model 27-2 is an exceptionally well-preserved example, retaining approximately 98% of its original blue finish with only minor muzzle wear, a drag line along the rib, light operational wear, and a thin cylinder turn line. The checkered Goncalo Alves target stocks remain in Fine condition with sharp checkering, only minor handling wear, and no chips or cracks, while the bright 9/10 bore retains sharp rifling with no erosion. Mechanically, the revolver remains particularly strong, with tight lockup showing little to no play, a smooth double-action pull, and a light, crisp single-action release. The included presentation case, cleaning kit, and paperwork complement the revolver’s premium configuration and make for an especially attractive package from the classic pinned-and-recessed Model 27 era. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY