The 6" model 28 is my favorite DA revolver. And my favorite .357 Magnum revolver. And, to me its always been the best value .357 money could buy.
The only differences between the Model 27 and the Model 28 are the finish, hammer & trigger, and stocks. (I count difference in the sights as part of the finish). and the $$$$
I don't need a red ramp/ white outline rear sight. They're nice but I don't need them. I actually prefer the Highway Patrolman's satin blue over the high lustre blue of the 27 (or 57, or 29).
My favorite 28 is one I found ASNIB (unfired) at a gun show in the mid 80s, which had the S&W Target hammer and trigger installed, making it (to me) the best of both worlds. My gun has worn Pachmayr grips since I started shooting it, and it will easily handle "real" .357 Magnum loads, including stuff that is too hot for K frames and some other guns.
Its big, its heavy, in comparison to smaller lighter guns, but its meant to be. If that's too much for you, you should probably choose something else.