.357 Magnum Double Action Revolvers

["DoubleAction"]

Because the .357 magnum was originally designed as a Combat cartridge, it is fitting that most would prefer the double action revolver as the choice in the .357 magnum. Although attempts have been made to duplicate this cartridge in the compact carry semi-autos, it remains primarily as a cartridge designed for the double action revolvers.

["DoubleAction"]

From the very beginning, Smith & Wesson understood the importance of building a Combat Revolver of superior strength to handle the energy of the .357 magnum. The introduction of the .357 Magnum on the S&W N Frame remains a landmark in handgun history. The S&W Model 27 picked up where the Registered 357 magnum left off with it's designation Model Number. From today's standards of modern handguns, the Model 27 would be one not found in a production grade handgun.

["DoubleAction"]

It doesn't take but a glance at one to notice that Colt's Python is possessed with refinements not found in any other double action revolver.To touch,hold,and move any part of a Python is to experience it's jeweled like movements that few words can describe.Why it shoots so smooth and accurate is with reason,as is everything else about the gun.The Python has exceeded the industry standards since it's introduction in 1955 with a barrel twist of 6 rifling grooves,as opposed to 5 for most others,and a left hand twist of 1 in 14 inches as opposed to the industry standard of 1 in 18 3/4 inches.The barrel also has an inner surface that is polished to a mirrored smoothness like no other revolver manufactured.Another noted feature of the barrel is the bore diameter that tapers by 1/1000 of an inch toward the muzzle,forcing the bullet deeper into the rifling.The action of the Python has at least six individual hand polishing and honing steps performed.The trigger stroke and hammer fall are longer than those of the S&W,Ruger,Taurus,or Dan Wesson which some may feel is bad but in fact it's good because the longer hammer fall provdes a harder strike on the frame mounted firing pin; with a more lighter trigger action this provides a more reliable primer ignition while providing the Python with a positive trigger return from shot to shot.Assisting in the cylinder lock up is the "Second Hand" which rises under the first hand,locking the cylinder motionless in place at the moment of the shot. These are some of the noticeable differences that I've found with the Python,as opposed to some other revolvers,thought some of you might be interested.

["DoubleAction"]

With a more conventional wisdom being behind the development of a mid size revolver, Bill Jordan responded when asked about his thoughts on the idea. The results was the K-Frame model 19, and later with the stainless version, being that of the model 66 Combat Magnums. When it finally became apparent to everyone that the K-Frames were not holding up so well to the hotter .357 magnum loads, and many were finding that practice with the 38 wadcutters did not match up with the real world of .357 magnum duty ammo, S&W decided to step up to a more stronger version of the mid frame. This resulted in the developement of the L-Frame .357 Magnums, along with the Blued 586 and the it's Stainless version in the 686 Distingushed Combat Magnums.

[vito]

With its much shorter barrel, how do you think the S&W 640 measures up? Does the short barrel significantly reduce the hitting power of the 357mag?

[XavierBreath]

I'm just a novice on these fine handguns, so I'm going to just post a few pics instead of comment.






A couple of things I really like is .38spl for my wife to decrease recoil, and the very nice SA trigger.

["DoubleAction"]

Vito; In all essence, the S&W 640 is a fighting gun, easy to conceal & carry, easy to deploy, easy to manuver in very tight quarters, and with 5 rounds of your choice in many defensive .357 magnum loads and bullets, your not likely to run out of options until the last round is fired. ;D

["DoubleAction"]

Xavier; Your Double Action Revolver collection is off to an excelent start. Notice the refined details of the model 27; when S&W puts their best foot forward, they usually leave behind some very large tracks on the industry . The 27 is one gun you can invest in, which increases in value the moment after you buy it.

[Flipper]

And when you want to try the really HOT loads in 357 magnum.....you get yourself the indestructible Ruger GP-100. ;D

[metalman]

DA, Do you know much about the S&W Model 28? I haven't found a whole lot of info about it online. My stepdad has a Model 28-2 "Trooper's Model" (I think that is the marking). The gun looks new and has the original documentation.
Also, my father-in-law has a S&W Model 19 that his uncle carried as a detective. It has a custom hammer lock that is engaged with the cylinder release. The story is that he had that job done so if he got jumped in the shipyard he could get to his backup before the guys could shoot him with his own gun. It's a neat old gun and shoots great. (Can only hope that it comes my way someday )

[XavierBreath]

Metalman,
it's my understanding that the M28 is the M27, except without the topstrap checkering or fancy blue job. It's a great gun.

["DoubleAction"]

metalman; The model 28 might be known as "The Highway Patrolman", or "Patrolman". Some might have "Highway Patrol" stamped on the barrel. There are several differences in the 27 and 28. The triggers on the 28 are the .265" serrated, while the 27 has the .400" serrated trigger. The hammer on the 28 is the .400" semi target hammer, while the 27 has the .500" target hammer. Both pistols are built on the N- Target frame, and chambered for the .357 magnum; the 28 is offered with a more utility appeal, with less of a shine to the blue finish, and a ribbed barrel. These are some very serious double action magnums, and a pride to posess, your Step Dad has one of the very good ones.

[9mm]

DA; the Python is one of the few revolvers I lust for. Your photos are and descriptions are beautiful.

What combat role was the .357 Magnum supposed to fulfill?

["DoubleAction"]

9mm; Thanks; The .357 magnum was developed as a Law Enforcement cartidge in the wake of the crime era of the twenties and thirties, when fighting crime became an issue of fire power in the apprehension of certain criminal elements. A handgun cartridge capable of penetrating the heavy steel car bodies of the time was also needed. Also, the flat trajectory of the .357 magnum brought the popularity of handgun hunting to a serious level. One of the 1st units of the S&W .357 magnum was presented to J.Edgar Hoover. Since it's introduction in 1935, the .357 magnum remains the cartridge that so many have tried to duplicate in the more popular carry pistol of the semi-auto.

[Mountaineer]

Metalman, I used to own a S&W Model 28 Highway Patrolman, it was a really nice DA revolver. The others are right about the difference between 28 and 27 , the blueing is not as nice and no checkering on top strap. Mine was a police trade in, but it was in about 98% condition, wish I had it back.

[Magnum]

If only Smith still made an N-Frame .357(I'm not going to count the 627 since it's not "regular" production).

I know I'd buy one, even if I had to sell my 686 with its gorgeous Lamo Camo Hogue grip. I think I'll keep my eyes open for a M27 at the gun shows from now on.

["DoubleAction"]

Magnum; I would hold on to my L-Frame, they are great mid frame magnums. It took S&W quite a few years to finally develop a mid frame that could handle the hotter magnums with heavy use and confidence.

[Magnum]

I have no plans to get rid of it, but if the deal was sweet enough......who knows?

Gotta love the L-frame, they may still shoot loose (eventually) but at least they won't stretch out.

[Misfit]

Are there any GP-100 owners out there? I know S&W is the flagship maker of DA revolvers, and certainly have made some of the very finest ones out there, but Rugers get no love! How come? From everything I've heard, a GP-100 will absorb every bit as much recoil as a N-frame, and its more "Western" style grip angle is actually better for heavy loads. The main differences seem to be in the details - e.g. "not as smooth" "trigger pull heavier" "not as aestheticaly pleasing." etc.

[denfoote]

Goody!! A picture post thread!!!

My one and only!!!
M28-2, circa 1976.



Edited by DoubleAction to resize picture.