Which would you prefer, and why?

[Ky Larry]

The S&W hands down. Both revolvers are tough, durable, and made to last several life times. Fit, finish, and trigger on th S&W are better. I don't own a -27 or -28 right now but I have owned both. I currently own a perfect Python and I shoot it about every range trip.As for -27s being too valuable to shoot, if I owned one, I'd shoot it. It would be a joy to carry and shoot. It was made to be shot, so why not enjoy it? YMMV.

 

[wep45]

S&W................there is no substitute.

 

[BushyGuy]

I am Ruger fan thats why! S&W are over rated..

 

[918v]

In terms of what?

 

[S&Wfan]

There's zero doubt that the Model 27, P&R versions, were much nicer executed revolvers than ol' Bill's revolvers with the ugly warning rollmarks on the side of the barrel.

As others have mentioned, the best comparison is the 586/686 S&W L frames vs. the GP100.

Also, the best comparison of an N-frame S&W would be the "plain jane" version of the M-27 . . . the much loved Model 28 Highway Patrolman.

On all guns, the leaf spring operated action of the S&W revolvers (except the tiny J frames) gives one a better trigger job than how Ruger builds theirs.

They are all nice revolvers, and I own Ruger handguns . . . but to compare a GP100 to a P & R Model 27 would be like comparing a Lexus to a Ford Explorer.

Since no photos have been posted, here's one of a 3 1/2" barreled Model 27-2 that I bought this year . . . pure beauty and perfection! . . .

 

[MCgunner]

Neither, really, but I went with the Ruger. I prefer the Ruger design.

 

[Topcat]

The model 27 is a CLassic with a capital "C." Even though I like the GP100 I would have to pick the S&W. One thing I really hate about the GP100 is the grips with the wood inside the rubber. They look stupid and on mine the wood cracked so that gave me a good excuse to replace them with some Hogue mono-grips.

 

[9mmepiphany]

S&Wfan those are beautiful pictures, especially the first one of the top strap checkering....the squared fo sight leaf is so much nicer than the current rounded leaf

i once considered having the top strap of one of my Pythons checkered, but checkering on the flat just didn't compare to the skill of checkering on a curve like the M-27.

i will add that the Security-Six is a much superior .357 Mag than the GP-100. if you'd really like a nice Ruger, look for a Davis Custom Couger...Security-Six mated to a Python barrel

 

[Cactus Jack Arizona]

I love the GP100. I used to have one, but had to sacrifice it to help me obtain a lighter concealed carry firearm. I look forward to the day I can purchase another GP100 with a 6 inch barrel. Of course, I wouldn't mind also having a S&W 686+ in my stable as well. Sorry, but I prefer the 686 over the 27.

 

[Ala Dan]

Greeting's Jon My Friend-

To answer your poll, I would have too choose the Smith model 27 [P&R].
I don't consider myself a collector as per say; as "cumulator" is a better
word to describe me. With that said, I cumulate more Smith's than any
other type firearm. And besides, I own a 3.5" model 27-2 in UNFIRED
status that is absolutely goregous; in its presentation box~!

Hope all is well with you and yours~! May GOD BLESS~!

 

[bflobill_69]

Trigger... period

Bflobill69

 

[jhvaughan2]

Nothing against Rugers, but they are not my passion. I already have a 27.

 

[billybob44]

Model 27-2

I voted for the Model 27. I just acquired a 27-2 recently and am amazed of it's accuracy. I have a S&W Model 681 4" for carry=very much like a GP-100.

 

[joed]

The S&W would be my choice. The craftsmanship alone should sell a 27. The checkered top strap and the fit of parts. I owned 1 27-2 a nickel finish, great gun. I've owned a few Rugers but don't like them much.

 

[billybob44]

I just personally prefer the GP100. I like heavy revolvers over light(er) ones.

Have you held a Model 27-6"==Not a light weight..

 

[dogngun]

Never owned a GP 100, but I have owned 3 S&W Model 28's -

I like Ruger DA revolvers a lot, but I like Smiths much more, especially the N frames...I'd get the 27...I have a Model 28-2 right next to me this very minute. It was made in 1969, and is tight as new.
Get the Smith.

mark

I do carry it occasionally, in an old pancake belt holster.

 

[sixgunner455]

IF it was either/or, I'd get the Ruger -- just because the N-frame is too big for me, so I wouldn't shoot it as much, and I can't stand having a gun that I don't shoot because it doesn't fit. If it was both, I'd get the 27 as well because they are just too cool.

But I'd rather have a model 19 than a model 27. Fits better.

 

[OrangePwrx9]

I consider myself a Ruger guy and am normally a big fan of their wheelguns. But I had a 6" GP100 that just left me cold. It felt like a brick in my hands. Never could shoot it well. Thought it was a huge step backward from the 4" Security Six that I've owned and shot (very well) for over 30 years. Traded the GP100 away and haven't missed it a bit. Maybe a 4" GP100 would've been OK, but a 6" with that heavy underlug just doesn't work for me.

I'd like to find a good Model 27 Smith myself.
Bob

 

[9mmepiphany]

But I had a 6" GP100 that just left me cold. It felt like a brick in my hands. Never could shoot it well. Thought it was a huge step backward from the 4" Security Six that I've owned and shot (very well) for over 30 years.

this is, in my experience, is the truth

 

[roaddog28]

Hi I can understand your experience with your GP100 6 inch. I think they are muzzle heavy because of the full underlug. So is the 686 6 inch. I would much prefer a 27 or 28 6 inch or even a old Ruger Security Six 6 inch. Both are not as muzzle heavy because of the half under lug. To me a full under lug 6 inch revolver is harder to shoot.

roaddog28

 

[CSA 357]

27 with out any question!!!!!

 

[Jon Coppenbarger]

My favorite revolver has always been the model 27. i think the ruger revolvers are a very well built and long lasting pistol.

I own a pre-27 with the 3 1/2" barrel made in 1952 in like 90% condition and a new in the box 1960 model 27 no dash in 6". The pre-27 5 screw pistol is a sweet pistol. I do like the model 28 also and have 1959 new in the box in 4" and a new (forgot which year) 28-2 in 6".

fun pistols

 

[Chasing Crow]

Smith - There is just somrthing magical about a smith!

 

[Wildbillz]

I would get the Smith. In a 357mag I would think about an L frame. If I was to get an N frame I would get a Mod 29 with a 6" or 4" bbl.

Wild Bill

 

[PT1911]

As of today I own a 4" GP100. I have been a proud owner of a 686-1 for a few months...Both are attractive guns and have GREAT fit and finish, but, honestly speaking, the GP will undoubtedly be experiencing more rounds down the tube at the range and in the woods.