Was 74-77 a good era for Smith and Wesson?
The '70s were excellent years for Smith Revolvers.
I have a 1973 Mode 28 that I was issued in 1974 by my department, I shot the crap out of it with good solid 357 loads. I was gifted the gun when I retired and I still shoot it a lot and its as solid as the day it was issued.
I also have the 6.5 inch Model 27 I got in the later part of the 70s. I've shot it a lot but maybe not as much as my service revolver. But again its as solid as the day I got it new.
Only thing I didn't like about the '27 was its not a service revolver. That extra barrel length sucks when your setting is a patrol car all day. The extra 2.5 inches does make a difference.
My 27 had target sights and will the longer barrel (sight radius) I can shoot it a bit better then my 28.
If I was ever to go back into law enforcement (at near 70 that aint happening) my Model 28 would be my number one choice.
I shoot both the 28 & 27 in bowling pin matches, again the 27 is a bit more accurate for the reasons stated above. I had to load down my ammo for the pins, I've did have an occasion where my full load SWCs ripped through a pin without knocking it down, or off the table.
The N frame Smiths are without a doubt my favorite revolvers. A real hand gun.
In O.W. Wilson's Text Book, POLICE ADMINISTRATION, he says "the service revolver should be heavy, so it can be used as a club if necessary" . I doubt I pistol whip anyone soon, but those old N frames would fit the bill.
They would have done Matt Dillon proud for thumping bandits.
Anyway, congrats on your find. Judging by the price I paid for my '27, inflation and all, that looks to be to be a fair price.
Unlike the K frames, you don't have to ration your 357s, I've shoot loose a Model 19 and Model 13, K Frames just don't hold up to steady 357 uses.
Real Cops Carry Revolvers