Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 627 .357 Magnum Lew Horton 8-Shot Revolver – 5" Stainless Limited Run
This Model 627 comes from the Smith & Wesson Performance Center as part of the 1997 Lew Horton limited run of roughly 600 revolvers. Notably, it was the first factory-produced 8-shot .357 Magnum, offering increased capacity in a familiar N-frame package. Hand-tuned at the Performance Center, it features a slab-sided, full under-lug barrel, a smooth wide trigger, and a ball-detent yoke lock for consistent lock-up. Collectors value its unique “.357 MAG - 8 TIMES” barrel inscription and factory moon-clip cuts, while shooters appreciate the adjustable sights and target-style hammer.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The stainless finish shows a few minor scratches and small blemishes from previous handling. The bore is bright and shiny with sharp rifling.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson Performance Center factory hard case
- Speed Beez 8-shot moon clips
- Speed Beez moon-clip loading tray
- Speed Beez moon-clip loader/unloader tool
Produced only in 1997, this limited-edition revolver carries the RJM serial prefix and is 1 of approximately 600 guns shipped through Lew Horton Distributing. The scarcity, coupled with Performance Center craftsmanship, makes it attractive to both collectors and dedicated wheel-gun shooters.
The 5-inch stainless barrel is slab-sided to reduce weight and capped with a recessed target crown to protect the rifling. “.357 MAG - 8 TIMES” is roll-marked on the right side, underscoring its eight-round capacity—a feature made possible by the factory-cut cylinder designed for moon clips.
A smooth, wide trigger with an over-travel stop pairs with the target-style hammer for controlled double-action work and crisp single-action breaks. Inside, Performance Center gunsmiths polish and tune the action, and a ball-detent yoke lock reinforces consistent cylinder alignment under recoil.
Adjustable iron sights include a pinned gold-bead Patridge front and a fully adjustable black rear blade, delivering a clear sight picture. Hogue rubber Monogrips provide a secure, recoil-absorbing hold on the N-frame.