The model 19 is a K frame.The 27 and 28 are the larger N frame.The 28 is very much like the 27 but with a less deluxe finish.

 

S&w 19, 27, 28

You want to be careful about enjoying S&W's so much...you will have a GREAT time, but will be constantly broke (personally, I can live with both options!):bthumb: .

The model 19 is a K frame gun (mid size, per se). Many people think that the K frames are the perfect size, weight, etc. However, if you are planning on shooting a bunch of magnum loads through the weapon, there are some concerns about the frame holding up to the long term (and I mean pretty long term) pounding generated by magnum loads.

The 27 and 28 are N frames (largest size frames until the X frames came along). These will handle all the magnums you care to shoot (I own one of each and have shot a LOT of magnums through both without even a hiccup). Essentially these two model are the same. The 28 (Highway Patrolman) was an economy version of the 27. IIRC, the 27 has more and finer checkering along the top strap and has a WONDERFULLY deep blued finish. The 28's finish is a dullish blue. Additionally, the 27 offered a nickel finish and, I believe, could be had in more varying barrel lengths than the 28. FWIW, the 28 was supposedly offered in nickel for a run of less than 100 (IIRC).

Hope this helps,

Don

 

Don't forget the 8 shot 627 that comes in a tapered barrel version and a Jerry Miculek version with a removable muzzle brake. It also is machined to use moon clips for a fast reload.

 

The model 19 is the same frame size, K, as your model 17 so you might think of getting a M-19 with the same barrel length. A matched set so to speak. Or perhaps the model 66, the stainless steel version of the model 19. They would have about the same weight, balance, & could use the same holster.

I've got a 17-4 like yours and a 66-2 both in 6" Love them both but the 17 gets to the range far more often.

 

Thanx guys, I appreciate it. Am also looking at the 586 too. Don't mean to offend anyone, but stainless or nickle do nothing for me. I'm a traditionalist- Blue w/wood stocks.

Cheers,

Mark

 

Hello Mark
You will more than Likely end up with all the frame sizes and different Models once you start buying and enjoying them. I know I did. My Favorite is a model 27 for all around looks and accuracy. Here are the models you asked about, and they all are great shooters. Do like I did, Get on or more of each. Hammerdown

Model 19-4 .357 Magnum K-Frame

Model 586 Target Champion .357 Magnum L-Frame

Model 27-2 5" Barrel .357 Magnum N-Frame

Model 28-2 6" Barrel .357 Magnum Highway Patrolman

 

I've got a 28-2 and like it so much that I sold my 1961 Python. If the 28 ever needs to have the timing redone it will probably cost less than half of a Colt.

 

I sent my 586 6" in last winter to get the timing redone. It cost $48 to ship it & $100 to put a new forcing cone on it, new push arm & what ever it is that is round on top that holds the cylinder in place on the bottom of the frame. The old on was flat. I like the 586's soooo much I picked up a 4" to go with my 6" a couple of years ago. They will take a beating, I reload & shot a 50/50 mix of 38/357's out of the 6". I bought the 6" new in 1990 & used to keep tract of the primers I bought. I quit counting after 150,000.

 

Thanx guys, I appreciate it. Very nice guns Hammer Down. Think I may concentrate on a 27, 28 or 586. Not sure which I like the looks of better. Does the full length lug on the 586 actually do, or add anything?

Cheers,

Mark

 

Hello
Speaking from my own revolver's here, I can say that the model 586 has a nice balance with the Underlug, and according to S&W It adds a Little more durability, which I can't Vouch for as none of mine have worn out or have needed service parts from wear. On a Practile view, I would say the Model 28 or 27 is more durable than the 586 as they are larger and can take Repeated Heavy recoil better. The model 586's & 686's Have a smaller trigger and hammer than the Larger -N-frame model 27 & 28's. I have found my 5" model 27 to be about Perfect in Balance and Looks to me. It is all what feels and handles better to the Personal shooter as any of them mentioned are Great revolvers. Hammerdown

 

Smith & Wesson Beautys---

WOW ---Hammer, you really have some Beautiful S&W's there.
I've owned every one of those models over the years except the 586.
I wish we had more forums to discuss in addition to rimfires.
Has anyone ever experimented with handloads and the heavy 180 and
200 grain Keith style bullets and heavy loads for bear out of the .357 ?
I think there's a newer gun out called the .343 Casull that is a very
heavy frame gun using the .357 case and gains of 300-500 fps over
normal out of the .357 case. Not Recommended for light frame guns.
Very high and dangerous pressures and already has made some impressive
kills on bigger game. I can't find out much about it, yet.

Thanks for the pictures.