So I have run myself across a pickle of a situation! I have come across a verrry clean Model 27 for sale and I have been casually hunting for a nice example, preferably a 3.5" or 4 was the direction I was looking. I was shown a beautiful M27 that iirc, was a 6" or 6.5" I can't recall. It is gorgeous example and I was told this one is somewhat rare in the barrel length it's in. I can't speak to that myself but would like to hear your thoughts. The bluing is drop dead gorgeous, mile deep blue luster that is perfect all over. I don't think its been reblued, the stampings still have the raised edges around it all that typically is not present on a reblue. The prominence is that it was in the estate of an older gentleman, shot little but care for. Now it does exhibit a little bit of gas cutting into the top strap that is common on these older guns. The cylinder locks up good, no excessive play. The trigger is smooth and incredibly nice. It has the beautiful checkered topstrap and barrel that the 27 is known for. It shows a little age elsewhere like the red ramp is a bit tired and the magna's had some character. The only thing that really gives me pause is one "flat" of the cylinder has what looks like some small pits/dents in it like would be present if it had rusted or maybe impact damage. But the bluing is bright and shiny. So some things seem to contradict themselves with what I see and I'm fairly observant when looking at guns. If it was reblued it was done by an expert, no doubt about that. I wouldn't pass on a refinished gun provided it was done perfectly and the gun was mechanically sound but with a price that reflects a refurb. The example in question is supposedly original and with a price of $1600 so im hesitant. I wished I had pics for you all but ill have to go back for deeper analysis and to confirm details. I want an old classic P&R Smith in my collection and the 27 is the target. I want an old classic that is from the bygone era where real craftsmanship and expertise was the natural way. Deep lustrous hot salt blued guns that were hand fitted, built with forged steel, not MIM'ed for economy, pinned and recessed and the embodiment of what was Smith and Wesson's best. I don't think a registered magnum or unregistered is in the cards but an old 27 is. I just want a clean example. I'd like to know how old this one is so ill need the serial number I presume. Anyhow, what do the classic S&W guys have to say, what to look for, etc?