S&W Model 27 Classic .357 Mag 6.5″ 6-Rd Blued Walnut
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Smith & Wesson Model 27 Classic .357 Mag 6.5″ 6-Rd Blued Walnut is a modern-manufacture N-frame revolver that faithfully replicates one of Smith & Wesson's most iconic target pistols from the mid-20th century. Based on the original "Registered Magnum," this model utilizes modern CNC machining for improved dimensional consistency while maintaining the traditional styling and mechanical layout that made the platform legendary. For shooters accustomed to smaller defensive frames, like the Stevens 334 Rifle, this revolver represents a fundamentally different class of firearm designed for deliberate, precise shooting rather than rapid deployment or high-volume plinking.
What is the S&W Model 27 Classic used for?
This revolver is engineered for deliberate target shooting, formal competition, and serious collector display. The combination of its 6.5-inch barrel, which provides a 13.5-inch sight radius, and its micro-adjustable rear sight allows for precise windage and elevation corrections necessary for bullseye or metallic silhouette shooting. It can also handle .38 Special +P ammunition for cost-effective training, though its substantial 52-ounce weight makes it impractical for most concealed carry or extended field use.
How does the S&W Model 27 Classic compare to the Colt Python?
The S&W N-frame design is mechanically superior for sustained high-volume shooting with high-pressure .357 Magnum loads compared to the medium-frame Colt Python. While both are premium revolvers, the Model 27's larger cylinder and locking points provide a timing and lockup interface that is more resistant to loosening under thousands of full-power .357 rounds, a critical factor for competitors. The Python's smoother factory trigger pull remains a benchmark, but the Smith & Wesson's action, while slightly heavier at a 10.5-pound double-action pull, has greater mechanical longevity and is easier for a competent gunsmith to tune.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, this blued carbon steel revolver weighs 52 ounces (3.25 pounds or 1474 grams), with a 6.5-inch barrel contributing to an overall length of 12 inches. The cylinder width is 1.73 inches, resulting in a frame width that demands a specific holster type, typically a reinforced leather or kydex OWB rig. Its overall dimensions make it incompatible with standard pistol safes designed for semi-automatics; you'll need a large handgun compartment or a dedicated rifle safe for secure storage, similar to the requirements for our long guns like the Stevens 555 Sporting .410 Bore.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a viable firearm for concealed carry, defensive use for shooters with smaller hands, or as a first centerfire handgun. The large, square-butt grip frame measures 1.68 inches from backstrap to trigger face, requiring a handspan of at least 4 inches from thumb to trigger finger for proper double-action reach. Anyone looking for a lightweight trail gun should consider a scandium-frame J-frame; those prioritizing rapid sight acquisition for defensive shooting should look at modern optics-ready semi-automatics.
What's in the box?
Smith & Wesson ships this revolver with the factory-supplied wooden presentation case, a 6-round steel speed-loader (matching the 6-round cylinder capacity), a cable lock that threads through the frame and cylinder opening, and the standard owner's manual and warranty card. Note that unlike some competitors, it does not include a bore snake or cleaning rod; you will need to purchase a .36 caliber cleaning kit separately before your first range trip.
Is the S&W Model 27 Classic worth it at $1265.99?
Yes, the price is justified for a shooter seeking a historically authentic, mechanically robust target revolver with modern manufacturing tolerances. At this price point, you are paying for the hand-fitted bright blued finish—a multi-step process involving polishing, degreasing, and controlled oxidation that takes roughly 14 man-hours per gun—and the precise internal fitting of the hammer and trigger assembly. If your primary use is hunting, the money might be better spent on a scoped Stevens 334 in .243 Win; but for dedicated revolver competition or collecting a definitive example of the N-frame, this is the entry.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Micro-adjustable rear sight allows for precise 1/10-inch per click windage and elevation corrections for targets at 25-100 yards.
- 52-ounce unloaded weight provides significant mass to mitigate .357 Magnum recoil, reducing perceived muzzle flip by roughly 40% compared to a 30-ounce K-frame.
- Hand-fitted bright blued finish is more corrosion-resistant and visually uniform than standard matte or parkerized finishes on most production revolvers.
Trade-offs
- No optics compatibility—the frame is not drilled and tapped, and no mount exists for this model, limiting it to iron sights only.
- Checkered walnut grips are traditional but offer minimal contour for high-hand purchase; aftermarket grips from Pachmayr or Hogue are a recommended $40-$75 upgrade for control.
- Large square-butt grip frame provides poor concealment and requires a dedicated, often custom, OWB holster purchase.
Key attributes
| upc | 022188134391 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 150341 |
| action | SA/DA Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 6.5'' |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Blue |
| length | 12'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
| model | N Frame |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 9.8 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal Lock |
| shipping weight | 4.9 |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket .38 Special moon clips?
- No, the cylinder is not cut for moon clips, as this is a traditional design that predates that accessory system. You must load and eject .38 Special or .357 Magnum cartridges individually or use a speed-loader designed for 6-round N-frames, such as the HKS Model 587. The cylinder's star ejector is sized for rimmed revolver cartridges only.
- Does it fit a standard Pelican 1450 pistol case?
- No, the 12-inch overall length and wide cylinder exceed the internal dimensions of the Pelican 1450. You will require a case with at least a 13-inch interior length and 3.5-inch interior width. We recommend the Plano All Weather 42-inch case or the Pelican 1700 series for secure transport.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes 'Online Only' firearm shipments within 2 business days after FFL verification. Transit time via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air adds another 2-3 business days, so expect your FFL to receive the package within 5 business days from order confirmation, barring any state-mandated waiting periods.
- Can I return it if the cylinder timing is off?
- Ironclad Armory's policy does not accept direct returns on firearms due to federal regulations. However, if you receive a firearm with a mechanical defect like improper cylinder timing, we will initiate a direct warranty repair request with Smith & Wesson on your behalf. S&W typically completes warranty repairs and returns the firearm to your FFL within 10-14 business days after receipt.