They're VERY well thought of. But they're too large and heavy for a daily wear .357, so they fell out of favor with the general gun wearing public.
For a hunting gun, it's about right and it'll shoot as well as a Colt Python, with fewer cylinder timing problems. I've owned both, so can say that with conviction.
The M-27 soaks up recoil a lot better than smaller .357's. If you got yours for a "good price", you're very fortunate.
The target grips are too big for many users,but any N-frame replacement stocks will fit. I do prefer the older guns, without the big target hammer and trigger. They just handle better.
The M-27 is certainly one of the all-time classic S&W's. And prices are rising.