On the outside they're just a well used BDA and Model 27(Ive been told by a few that is actually a pre 27? and possibly had the barrel cut down?). For me, its much more than that. The Model 27 was my grandfathers service revolver for his entire career with Yuma, AZ PD. Its also the first revolver I ever shot.
The BDA, was my uncles service handgun, who was killed in the line of duty while serving with Newport Beach Police.
My Dad has had these for years and on a recent visit decided it was time that they go to me and and some point my boys. They've never really been safe queens so I dont plan to start now.

The 27 "had" some really nice bluing. Its obviously worn off on the end of the barrel and cylinder but not beat up. In fact, I very much enjoy the wear on this one.

Not having handled a BDA before, I was surprised by a few things. The lack of a dovetailed front site and the bluing on the flats of the slide, gives its nice look. Its now almost a purple color.







[img]https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/276/18193846804_e8ccd99016_b.jpg[/img]
[img]https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/371/18628767610_60b7210680_b.jpg[/img]

Lots of family history in your hands now, take good care of them!

Treasures...

Your family members had great taste in pistols. Treasure them forever...but shoot them, that's what they'd want you to do.

Very sweet, cherish them and SHOOT them.

That Smith is awesome. Good photos too.




Travis

The 27 barrel was cut. Looks factory. S&W used to cut barrels and install different front sights; Skeeter Skelton had a couple of his
done at the factory. Nice work on a gorgeous gun. Love the 27.
Bob

27-2 factory 5" with Herrett's Skeeter-modified Roper stocks

Thanks for confirming. I have to imagine he bought it this way as I dont recall him being the type to do something like that. If its not factory it certainly looks to be done nice. Apprently the placement of the rollmarks was a giveaway?

Is this a Pre 27 then?

Yes on the pre-27; looks like a 5-screw. Is there a screw also in the front of the trigger guard? You're right about the markings; slightly off-center is the give-away, plus the post front sight. Whoever put on the front sight was a serious shooter. Very desirable S&W. Stocks are later-issue, probably mid or late 70's. That would be called a well-used, but well-cared-for working revolver with a cool history.
Bob

i suspect that 27 is a serious chooter. i'd put some AE 158 JHP's in it and see what it does. my 3.5 shoots like a dream when i do my part.

I'll find out soon. Im hoping my skills have progressed since I last shot it about 20 years ago

Thanks for the info,much appreciated. Yes, screw in front of trigger guard. I think I'll try and track down some stocks form that era, any suggestions on where to start?

The Smith and Wesson forum classifieds, if you're looking for period-correct factory stocks.

I have a full set of that bianchi basketweave leather, back from when my waist was about half the size it is now, same color too. Popular in arizona among the sheriff's popo at the time. I don't remember 27's being carried tho in the northcentral part of the state, mostly k frames or colts, and some rugers. Funny, given todays hi cap whatevers, i don't remember anybody feeling underarmed with one of those .357's.

I think I see a Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star and Purple Heart medal in the shadow box under that very attractive revolver. Looks like your Grandfather was a mans man.

Enjoyed the history of your guns, I am envious.

Best regards,

Lee

Bronze Star and Purple Heart----your dad's or yours???

I once had a great discussion with some guys on what gives a gun a "soul." Those two have "souls"---- I know that they'll be treasured.