Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 .357 Magnum N-Frame Revolver, 6-inch Heavy Barrel, High-Polish Blue (1956–1957) with Original S&W Picture Box
This Smith & Wesson Pre-Model 27 .357 Magnum is a late-1956 to early-1957 N-frame revolver with hallmark features collectors look for. It has a 6-inch heavy barrel with a finely checkered rib and a checkered topstrap, a high-polish blue finish, recessed chambers, and adjustable sights. The revolver retains classic walnut Magna stocks with diamond escutcheon and silver S&W medallions, plus color case-hardened hammer and trigger. An S-prefix serial on the butt with a matching number on the rear of the cylinder and an assembly number on the yoke/crane confirm its period-correct configuration and pre-Model designation.
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 revolver is in solid functional shape. Scratches and blemishes are present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Smith & Wesson gold picture box marked "The 357 Magnum Revolver"
- Paperwork
Built on the square-butt N-frame, this Pre-Model 27 shows the high-polish blue finish associated with early .357 Magnum production. The hammer and trigger are color case-hardened, and the walnut Magna stocks feature the diamond around the screw and silver S&W medallions for correct period detail.
The 6-inch heavy barrel has a full rib that is finely checkered, and the topstrap is also checkered. This configuration, combined with the .357 Magnum chambering, aligns with the premium features that defined S&W’s flagship .357 of the era.
The six-shot fluted cylinder is counterbored with recessed chambers. It includes a knurled ejector rod tip and a front locking lug. These details reflect the robust construction and fitment typical of mid-1950s production.
Sighting equipment consists of an adjustable micrometer rear sight paired with a Baughman-style ramped, serrated front sight. There is no "MOD. 27" stamp, indicating pre-1957 manufacture, and the yoke/crane shows an assembly number. An S-prefix serial on the butt matches the serial on the rear of the cylinder, supporting the revolver’s correct, period configuration.