S&W 586 vs 27 Question

[i-shoot]

I am looking between Smith & Wesson's classic series model 586 vs. the model 27 for my next revolver purchase. I'm looking for something that might help make my decision easier. (I know buy both). I realize that the mod 586 is an L frame and the mod 27 is a N frame but I am not sure that frame size matters regarding the strength of these two revolvers. My question is which one is stronger? Does the frame size matter regarding the strength of these two revolvers?

[Ant45]

I personally don't think it matters unless you plan on shooting 50,000 rounds of +P+++++++++++ .357. The 586 might wear out at 49,500 where the 27 will make it to 49,727.

Go with what feels best in your hand and makes your innards tingle with joy.

Or just get both.

[nearsightednate]

Both revolvers are great. I have a 686 SSR and my dad has the Model 27. For me, I prefer the weight and balance of my 686 over the 27. My dad prefers his 27. At the end of the day, handle and shoot both (if possible) and see which one works or feels better for you.

[trigger945]

The L frame was developed to pretty much have the "bulk" and "strength" of an N frame while retaining the grip size of the K frame. All else being equal, I would expect the 586 to last as long as an N frame 27.

Now that that's out of the way, get the one the fits you better and you like better. Good luck. Post pics when you get it

[stormvet]

I would suspect that the 27 would be the stronger frame between the two, heads up. But That said the L frame is more then strong enough for anything you plan on doing with it. I have a 586-3, it's an outstanding wheel gun. Don't have a 27, but darn sure wish I did. Buy the one you like better, either will serve you well.

[Snapping Twig]

Interestingly, the 586/686 has a longer cylinder, so that allows a handloader the ability to load heavy for caliber bullets. The 27 has a shorter cylinder, so heavy for caliber bullets must be set back into the powder area which in turn ups pressures, and at the same time lowers overall powder charge.

So, the L frame is capable of a more powerful load.

That said, the 27's cylinder owing to larger diameter has more steel and is stronger to some degree.

It's a conundrum.

[IVC]

6 rounds vs. 8 rounds. Blue vs. stainless steel. That's about it for the difference.

[-hanko]

Interestingly, the 586/686 has a longer cylinder, so that allows a handloader the ability to load heavy for caliber bullets. The 27 has a shorter cylinder, so heavy for caliber bullets must be set back into the powder area which in turn ups pressures, and at the same time lowers overall powder charge.

So, the L frame is capable of a more powerful load.

That said, the 27's cylinder owing to larger diameter has more steel and is stronger to some degree.

It's a conundrum.

What kind of a load are you making?

I'm loading 158r swc's for HD with Lil' Gun to the SAAMI pressure max...I'm getting around 1600 fps. I'm set up to seat the bullets to SAAMI maximum OAL with no issues.

If the 686 were stronger than the 27, why hasn't SW chambered it in the larger magnum calibers? The 27 uses the same frame as the .44 mag.

Beyond that, I see better workmanship on my 27-2 and for that matter, the same on my model 28-2.

Inquiring minds, etc.

[GM4spd]

The 27 for sure but as a practical matter if you are reloading within safe
parameters,either one is strong enough. Of course "safe parameters" here
on CG could mean a lot of different things. The fine checkering on the top
strap and rear sight area of the 27 is more aesthetically pleasing to the eye and makes
for a great looking revolver. Pete

[DArBad]

..........

..... Does the frame size matter regarding the strength of these two revolvers?

All else being equal, frame size does matter. The bigger, heavier frame size will absorb more punishment than a smaller, lighter revolver. Its just the laws of physics.

But practical difference between your two revolver choices is very negligible. In my opinion, the difference in price is where it matters.

Good luck.

[USPSA GM]

The frame strength is probably very close but the Model 27 has a stronger cylinder. It has more material between chambers and can handle more pressure.

[Snapping Twig]

What kind of a load are you making?

I'm loading 158r swc's for HD with Lil' Gun to the SAAMI pressure max...I'm getting around 1600 fps. I'm set up to seat the bullets to SAAMI maximum OAL with no issues.

If the 686 were stronger than the 27, why hasn't SW chambered it in the larger magnum calibers? The 27 uses the same frame as the .44 mag.

Beyond that, I see better workmanship on my 27-2 and for that matter, the same on my model 28-2.

Inquiring minds, etc.

S&W model 69.

Me personally? Largest thing I load is a Lyman 358429 which comes to 173g from WW. I have to crimp over the front band to use them in my 627-0. I can use the bullet's crimping groove with my 586.

I load to SAAMI only, but that said, the 586 cylinder is longer so I don't have to compensate for bullet setback with the powder charge.

[Sutcliffe]

I voted both have same strength

IF you shoot factory loads in them.
If you handload and want to exceed recommended loads then you will have more flexibility if you use the N-frame.

[Ronin2]

First off, I hope you are looking for nice used pre-lock Smith's. Assuming that's the case, I would suggest you take a look at the S&W model 28 Highway Patrolman. It's the uglier (no high gloss blue finish) but harder working sister to the Model 27. Get a 28-2 for the pinned barrel and recessed cylinder. It will cost less than a model 27 in similar condition and there are lots on gunbroker to choose from in both 4 and 6 in ch versions. Buy from a PP and yousave on sales tax. Even if you buy from a FFL and pay sales tax, a very nice M28 plus the cost of a Single Action Exemption may still have you out the door for less than a new CA locked gun.

Besides a four inch model 27/28 is sexy as all hell with that beautiful classic tapered barrel.

Here are a couple current example of a nice model 28's on gunbroker...
6 inch

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=530119036

4inch

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=528991564

[Che762x39]

I have both and I prefer the M27 with a four inch barrel.