Smith & Wesson Model 27-2 Nickel .357 Magnum 5” Revolver 1977-1978
SOLD FOR: $1,290.00
LSB#: LSB250731EK177
Make: Smith & Wesson
Model: 27-2
Serial Number: N433993
Year of Manufacture: 1977-1978 Modern
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out, Six-Shot 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 of the frame is marked with the S&W trade mark monogram and “MADE IN U.S.A. / MARCAS REGISTRADAS / SMITH & WESSON / SPRINGFIELD, MASS.” The yoke cut is marked “MOD. 27-2 / N433993.”
Barrel Length: 5” Pinned Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade pinned to a boss on the barrel. The top of the barrel rib and top strap are finely checkered to reduce glare. The rear sight is a fully micro-click adjustable square notch mounted to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are factory Goncalo Alves target stocks with football cutouts, checkered panels, diamond escutcheon reliefs, and S&W medallions. The grips show moderate handling wear and a few small dings but remain sound and well-fitted to the frame.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling and light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.8/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 92% of its original nickel finish. The most notable wear is on the high edges and around the rear sight, where some surface oxidation is visible. There are scattered light handling marks and faint cylinder drag lines consistent with use. Screw heads are serviceable, and markings remain clear and sharp.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly with smooth double-action pull and a crisp single-action break. The cylinder is recessed, the barrel is pinned, and both hammer and trigger are the wide target type. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment:
The Smith & Wesson Model 27-2 represents the pinnacle of S&W’s N-frame craftsmanship—a revolver line descended from the legendary Registered Magnum introduced in 1935. Chambered in .357 Magnum, the world’s first magnum handgun cartridge, the Model 27-2 was built to the highest standards of polish, fit, and mechanical refinement that characterized Smith & Wesson’s output during the golden era of American revolvers.
This nickel-finished 5-inch example combines balance and visual appeal with practical performance, sporting the desirable pinned barrel and recessed cylinder that collectors favor. The checkered topstrap and barrel rib, target hammer and trigger, and factory Goncalo Alves grips all underscore its premium status within S&W’s catalog.
With bright nickel luster, original target features, and a near-pristine bore, this Model 27-2 remains a fine example of S&W’s artistry during the late 1970s—both functional and highly collectible. We are no longer offering layaway. KF
