Make: Smith & Wesson

Model: 27-2, The .357 Magnum

Serial Number: N479453

Year of Manufacture: 1977-1978

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 8 3/8”, Pinned

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned on a ramped base integral to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a square notched micrometer sight attached to the top strap. The rib, top strap, and rear sight base are finely checkered for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood target stocks with S&W medallions and a "football" extractor cut on the left panel. The grips have scattered light nicks and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some minor erosion and stubborn fouling in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7-8/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 85% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. There is finish wear at the muzzle on each side with a little more on the left. There are some light nicks and small scratches. There are a few spots of minor oxidation. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The .357 Magnum was the king of handgun cartridges for decades and Smith & Wesson made some of the best. When first introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1935 it was known as the Registered Magnum, in 1939 Smith & Wesson changed the name to “The .357 Magnum”, and later the Model 27. It was noted for its durability and reliability and has been a favorite of shooters since its inception. The 3 1/2” barrel length version of this revolver was extremely popular with FBI agents from the 1940s to the 1960s. General George Patton carried an ivory handled Registered Magnum with a 3 1/2” barrel (along with his ivory handled Colt Peacemaker). Patton called the Model 27 his “killing gun”.

This example is a 27-2 made between 1977 and 1978. This desirable 8 3/8" revolver is in Very Good condition, appearing to have seen responsible use over the decades. It should be a hit with the collectors, but is also one of the strongest double-action .357 Magnum revolvers ever made, built on S&W’s N frame, and should make for a good shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!