Roscoe Stephenson Guns-n-Rods

S&W Model 27-2 .357 Magnum #N215844
8-3/8" Barrel
Shipped from S&W factory in March 1975

This is one gorgeous Model 27 in its presentation case. You probably know, the Model 27 was the top of Smith & Wesson's line, in terms of fit and finish. It was their only model to have intricate checkering of the barrel rib and the top of its frame. What a beautiful detail it was, held over from the days of the Registered Magnum.

In 1934 Elmer Keith collaborated with Smith & Wesson to invent the .357 Magnum cartridge. It made a big splash in 1935 when introduced as the now famous Registered Magnum - their preeminent offering of the time. The cartridge certainly caught on, as did Smith & Wesson's big N-frame revolver chambered for it. When Smith & Wesson resumed civilian production following WW2 the .357 Magnum reappeared in improved form with the new hammer block safety and faster lock time from its "short action." In 1957 Smith & Wesson assigned model numbers to their guns, and this became the now familiar Model 27.

This wonderful example has seen little use. The recoil shield shows it has been fired some, but there is no other indication of wear to be found. It has as pretty a pair of bookend-cut presentation grips as I have seen. It has a target hammer and target trigger. It is, of course, "pinned and recessed." The 8-3/8" barrel, while not designed for concealed carry, makes for some really accurate and comfortable shooting. It gives a steady, weight forward hold, and it delivers maximum velocity from the .357 Magnum cartridge.

The mahogany presentation case is shown just as it came to me. Obviously a bit of furniture polish and some hand rubbing will restore it to virtually new on the outside. The molded inside of the case is in quite good condition for an example of this age. The only damage is the gouge where the rear sight rests. You will commonly see this and worse. All in all, the case is really good for its age.

This is one fine collectible package from days when Smith & Wesson was really "doing it right." Nobody builds a revolver to this standard in today's market, and certainly not at this price.

~ $1,650.00