S&W Model 21

[Desertrat357]

Just thought I would see what others thought. I will admit, I am a pretty recent convert to the 44 special. It honestly took longer than it should have. I have certainly grown fond of it. Currently, I only have one revolver in this caliber, and it is a single action, albeit a fine one. I would really like to add a decent double action to the mix. I doubt ruger will ever produce a Special only double action. After a lot of looking and reading, the Model 21 Smith and Wesson is really looking good. yes, it is slightly larger than need be for the Special. But the lines are so nostalgic! It just looks like a great revolver. I've done some looking on the auction sites, and there are a few of the "Thunder Ranch" version available. Only thing I don't care for is that gold emblem on the right side of the frame. Anybody else out there that would like to see this model offered again?

 

[CraigC]

IMHO, the N-frame is the perfect size for a .44Spl! The 4" fixed sight versions are great and the model 21 is the perfect chambering.

I need a 4" 24 to go with my 6½".

 

[CajunBass]

I used to have one of those Thunder Ranch Model 21's. Great revolver. One of the few guns I've ever seen that I though was improved by the addition of Hogue Monogrips. The original grips were IMHO ugly, and slippery, and the Hogues covered most of the golden chicken on the side. Plus they gave the gun a deadly serious look. And it was a great shooter.

I had to sell it back when I was out of a job and sold off most of my collection and I've got a Model 69 now that I use for shooting 44 Specials, but if one of those TR 44 Specials showed up at Ali-Babba's...I'd have to seriously think about it.

 

[Desertrat357]

I agree! The model 21 only weighs 36 ounces. Not a bad weight for packin' around on the belt. I honestly don't understand why they don't offer 44 Special only chamberings. I would've like to see another 5 shot 44 Special on the L frame also, but I'm pretty sure that won't be happening anytime soon since they released the model 69. I guess i'll have to start pestering them with emails again!

 

[Dframe]

My model 21 is one of my favorite revolvers. smooth as glass, classic looks, quite accurate, and in my favorite calibre. My old shooting buddy has the T-ranch version and used a permanent marker to blacken the gaudy emblem. Mine came from the factory with the ridiculous "magna" stocks which I immediately changed out for the far superior Ahrends like the T-ranch came with and never looked back. The model 21 may be the best kept secret in the gun world. Superb gun!

 

[Desertrat357]

Dframe,
Thanks for that info. However it just makes me want one all the more! I will have to start really watching the auction sites for a good clean used one. The T-ranch version would be fine, I will just have to see what turns up.

 

[ArkieVol]

44 Special...

...it just makes me want one all the more!

Just one? I've seen a few model 21's on Gunbroker that don't have the Thunder Ranch logo.

I like 44 specials and reload so I can shoot a lot. Of the dozen here three are also capable of launching 44 magnums

 

[rcmodel]

My .44 Special Model of 1950 Target.
Built in 1955.

Belonged to a flint hills Kansas Sheriff who later sent it back to the factory, and had the 6" barrel shortened to 4 1/2".

It has had the front ramp filed until it is exactly sighted in at 50 yards with the rear sight adjustment tightened down tight, using the old 'Skeeter' load of a 250 grain Keith SWC and 7.5 grains Unique.

The serial number is 553 lower then Elmer Keith's 1st. .44 Magnum

It's a heck of a good gun, and one of my favorites.



rc

 

[jolly roger]

Love my nickel 21..Only S&W I have that has the dreaded key lock hole..who cares..outstandingly accurate and no issues.

 

[StrawHat]

The Model 21 is a perfect no nonsense revolver. Everything you need and nothing else. I do not have the M21 but I do have the Model 22-4 and if I were to ever wear a badge again, this is the revolver I would want on my hip.

Kevin

 

[Desertrat357]

Guys, stop showing me these pictures! All of your revolvers make me envious! I agree, The idea of only having one 44 special is silly. I have a Freedom Arms, model 1997, which I truly enjoy. It's the nicest revolver I own currently. But Ruger doesn't offer a special in a double action platform. And I want a Smith & Wesson, I'm a big ruger fan, but the Smith actions are just smoother. And have those classic lines.

 

[StrawHat]

...Guys, stop showing me these pictures!...

You are just asking for trouble!

Kevin

 

[Desertrat357]

Well, there are a few on the Auction sites. I'll just have to become a regular at checking them more often. Hopefully a good deal will present itself.

 

[DM~]

I have a "K" frame in 44spl.,



so an "L" frame should be a no brainer, although I don't see any problem with just buying a M-69 and shooting spl's in it...

DM

 

[Zaydok Allen]

IMHO, the N-frame is the perfect size for a .44Spl! The 4" fixed sight versions are great and the model 21 is the perfect chambering.

I need a 4" 24 to go with my 6½".

Damn fine looking revolver. Those are Herretts right?

 

[Rio Laxas]

They look like a very nice set of Culina Grips.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Oh yeah. You may be right.

 

[StrawHat]

I have a "K" frame in 44spl.,



so an "L" frame should be a no brainer, although I don't see any problem with just buying a M-69 and shooting spl's in it...

DM

DM,

You are killing me with that photo!

The Model 21 is an "N" frame, not sure what the "L" frame 44 Special was called. But, I agree about the Model 69.

Kevin

 

[CraigC]

Damn fine looking revolver. Those are Herretts right?

Thanks! They're Culina exhibition walnut.