Smith Experts . . .

R

RWK

New member
I own several S&W .357 N frames, but not a Model 28. I have a twenty year old, five-inch barrel, Model 27-2 (P&R'ed), which is a simply fabulous revolver :) :). I have seen a number of similar vintage Model 28s, that appear to be virtually identical (N frame, adjustable rear sight, and so forth) to their Model 27 siblings. So, what are the fundamental differences between these two Smith models? I know the Model 28 was supposed to be the more-affordable .357 N frame, but are there any substantive differences?

Thanks for the information and the insights.
 
The only difference I am aware of is the bluing. I believe the 28 was specifically designed for the CA highway patrol. It is not as refined as a 27 in terms of a classical deep royal blue, but is designed for durability.

I can't help but remember when I looked at my father's gun safe (he had not opened it in over a decade.) Some of his stainless guns had rust on it, the 28 looked perfect. I've heard that S&W cannot duplicate the exact formula for a 28 bluing. That somehow was lost years ago. Not sure if that is exactly true...

justinr1

P.S. I'm not an "expert" but there are plenty of real experts in TFL.
 
Last edited:
Can we breed my 5" p&R 27 with yours ? Might get some M frames in the litter. :)

Far as I know the difference is the finish and the fine checkering on the top strap and barrel.

Sam
 
Generally it's the level of fit & finish.

Instead of bright blue, the 27 is brush blue, and the sight rib on top of the barrel is a matte blue instead of being checkered.

The internals also aren't so finely fitted or polished.
 
RWK my friend,

The only noticeable difference I have found is the matte
finish; instead of the nice, bright blue found on the S&W
model 27. The model 28 is more of a "working man's
gun"; designed originally for the state troopers. I know
several troopers here in Bama that carried these extact
same weapons. The ones I have owned, were near
perfection; and were great shooters. Kind'a hard for
me to adjust to the K and/or L frames. Have a delightful
day there pal-

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member
 
the original 28 was only offered in 4" and 6" barrels (no 3.5, 5, 6.5) and lacked the checkering on the top of the sight rib, frame and rear sight tang...the target hammer and trigger where not an option.

i've always found the workmanship on the 28 to be outstanding but always liked the balance of the 5" barrel on the 27 the best

wans't there a fixed sighted version on the 28? (m-21?)
 
one of S&W's

GREATEST SHOOTERS.....

these big guns lend themselves quite nicely to the artful hands of a skilled smithy.....they were just a "down the foodchain" version of the prettier 27's.

I've had two 28's that were gone over by a local smithy who was talented with smiths, had 'em nickel plated, put red ramp and white outline sights on....good set of stocks and boy would these boys shoot....

Love 'em....if you find a nice one, grab it:p
 
Couple more little differences.
28 priced about 25% less than 27.

27 available with choice of any target sight....28 Baughman on ramp only.

Sam
 
I can't add to what's been said. Sum up: fit and finish and number of options. I had a M28 but sold it. Don't miss it. Have four M27s and just try to take any of them away from me. I guess to me the small differences are worth the cost (but now the M28s are bringing nearly M27 money which I do not understand).
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top