Smith & Wesson · Double-action revolver
Smith & Wesson Model 27 Value
The Smith & Wesson Model 27, originally known as the .357 Magnum, was introduced in 1935 as the first production revolver chambered for the newly developed .357 Magnum cartridge. Built on the large N-frame with a hand-polished blued or nickel finish, it was positioned as a premium revolver from its introduction.
- Type
- Double-action revolver
- Production
- 1935 to the mid-1990s in classic form, with periodic later production
- Maker
- Smith & Wesson
About the Smith & Wesson Model 27
The Smith & Wesson Model 27, originally known as the .357 Magnum, was introduced in 1935 as the first production revolver chambered for the newly developed .357 Magnum cartridge. Built on the large N-frame with a hand-polished blued or nickel finish, it was positioned as a premium revolver from its introduction.
Early Model 27s were largely built to individual order with the buyer specifying barrel length, sights, and grip details, which makes pre-war and early post-war examples especially varied. The model later received its numeric designation of 27 when Smith & Wesson adopted model numbers in 1957.
Because of its status as the original .357 Magnum revolver and its hand-fitted target-grade construction, the Model 27 has long been regarded by collectors as one of Smith & Wesson's most historically significant double-action revolvers.
Variations
Smith & Wesson Model 27 variations that matter
Configuration is often the difference between two otherwise identical examples.
Registered Magnum era (1935–1938)
Early production guns were individually registered to their first owner and built largely to custom specification.
Post-registration production (1939 onward)
Smith & Wesson discontinued individual registration but continued offering the .357 Magnum as a premium catalog revolver.
Barrel lengths
Barrel lengths ranged from 3.5 inches to 8.375 inches across the model's production history.
Finish options
Bright blued finish was standard, with nickel plating offered as an alternative.
Model 27 designation (1957 onward)
The model received its number 27 designation when Smith & Wesson's numbering system was introduced.
Valuation
What affects Smith & Wesson Model 27 value
We do not publish a price chart. These are the characteristics that determine what a specific example evaluates at.
Factor 1
Registered Magnum status
Guns from the original 1935–1938 registered production are considered separately from later catalog production due to their documented individual registration.
Factor 2
Barrel length
Less common lengths, including the 8.375-inch target configuration, are treated as distinct from the more typical 4-inch and 6-inch guns.
Factor 3
Finish condition
Bright blue and nickel finishes both show wear, and original condition versus refinishing is closely evaluated.
Factor 4
Documentation
For registered Magnums, a factory letter or original registration certificate can be an important part of an evaluation.
Factor 5
Originality of grips and sights
Target-style adjustable sights and factory grips are weighed against replacements.
Factor 6
Mechanical timing
As a hand-fitted N-frame action, cylinder timing and trigger function are part of assessing overall condition.
Factor 7
Pre-lock versus post-lock production
As with other long-running S&W revolvers, production before the early 2000s internal lock is distinguished from later runs.
Smith & Wesson Model 27: common questions
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