The Rohrbaugh Forum

Miscellaneous => Other Guns => Topic started by: DanR9SF on May 10, 2010, 05:49:14 PM

Title: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 10, 2010, 05:49:14 PM
Some love the looks, some gag when they see it.  Its look comes from its function and that's why I like it.

It's a S&W Model 327 R8 which is an 8-shot 357 magnum (or 38 spl), 5 inch barrel.  That's an "N" size frame which fits my XXXL hands very well.  This thing is solid and very accurate.  And big.  It's no pocket gun.  I like it because it's different.  The barrel is made in Germany by Walthers (owned by S&W).  

The gun is referred to as a "breaching" gun.  The lead guy on an entrance team usually carries a shield in one hand.  The other hand carries his weapon.  Since auto loaders don't always function 100% when held in one hand, they came up with this gun.   Revolvers almost always go bang when you pull the trigger.  

(http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/mm153/dan0421/Sideview2.jpg)
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: ccoorreeyy on May 10, 2010, 05:56:12 PM
I would not say that I love the looks but I like it alot.  Bet it shoots great too!  Nice revolver.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 10, 2010, 06:35:00 PM
I've never seen one of those.  Looks good to me!
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on May 10, 2010, 07:10:47 PM
Dan,
  Nice find, can't say I've ever heard of one.

John
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 10, 2010, 07:39:34 PM
If you hang a light on that bottom rail...that's my home defense gun.  It's also the gun I shoot on our local "Dirty Harry" league.  There is also a top rail that can be added for something other than iron sights....or not...just like the bottom rail.  Use both of those rails and you could really turn it into a Frankingun.  
The moon clips make for really quick reloads...but if you can't get it in 8 shots...you got more serious problems than a reload is gonna get you out of....or you're having a lot of fun!!!

Beautiful gun...and feels even better.  Congrats.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 10, 2010, 07:45:25 PM
http://www.woodscustomrifles.com/id34.html

Here's some information on the gun.  It comes out of the Performance Center at Smith & Wesson.  I'm not a big fan of S&W after they caved to Clinton and added the Hillary Hole, but I've always like this gun so I got it.  It's different.  Not much recoil even with 357 magnum.  With a blinding light it make a good nightstand gun.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: birdman on May 10, 2010, 08:24:42 PM
     Dan, like John, I've never seen or even heard of these before. Great looking weapon! Seems as tho it would be a wonderful home defense gun. I'll have to look into it.   Gene
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 10, 2010, 10:55:39 PM
That article hit it right on the head. It's an EXCELLENT shooting revolver for people with smaller hands...like mine, also.
I have the TRR8 and have no problem out shooting any revolver I've ever tried before.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: birdman on May 12, 2010, 11:30:45 AM
   Dan, I'f you don't mind my asking, what does it cost?   Gene
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: Richard S on May 12, 2010, 11:56:01 AM
I like it! Congratulations, Dan.   8)
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: Dino on May 12, 2010, 12:13:49 PM
What's not to like? 8 shot 357! Performance Center?  Love it Dan thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 02:48:50 PM
Quote
  Dan, I'f you don't mind my asking, what does it cost?   Gene

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/21_39_72/products_id/39982

$1,055 at Buds (when in stock, which is: rarely)
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 03:33:07 PM
Gene.  One is on GunBroker if you want to bid on it.  Has a reserve.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=168917081
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 12, 2010, 04:39:16 PM
WOW!!!   If I didn't already have one, I'd be on that like white on rice....# 1 with documentation  AND a shooter :o...That doesn't happen.

BTW...others that I've seen on GB have brought between a low of $750 or so to a high of $1100.  I paid just under $900 shipped for mine about a year ago.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 04:56:56 PM
What a beauty!  And such a package, with all the documentation and the old aluminum box to boot!  Now they come in a blue plastic case.  Boring.  Anyway it was listed there a while back and didn't sell, with a Reserve Not Met at $1500.  Sure is nice (and glad I didn't see it before I bought mine).

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=158888789
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 05:47:54 PM
Gene.  There's your chance to get a #1.    ;D
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 12, 2010, 06:03:23 PM
You're right, Dan...That woulda been tough to resist if the desire for the gun was there...ya didn't have one yet...AND ya wanted a low serial number-shooter.
Like you, I am SOOO glad I don't have that conundrum to deal with!!
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 06:16:01 PM
The problem I have with a specimen like this #1 Model 327 R8 is the fact it's so darn special.  How would I feel about taking it out and shooting it?  I think I'd be more likely to keep it in the safe for collecting, and take it out of the safe occasionally to show to friends.  It would help if I were emotionally invested in the gun too.  

Ironically I bought a R9 Special Forces last year which ended up being a limited edition, and I carry it in my pocket every day.  

That is one beautiful specimen though, number one, all the paperwork, the badge, box... it'll go for over $2000 which is double a plain Jane model.  

    
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 06:30:12 PM
That is hard to resist.  I did go looking yesterday for one and my dealer said today he could order one, of course.  I'm just finding it hard to justify since I have a S & W .500.  

The R8 is just different, I know; and that appeals to me, a lot.  The eight shots, the .357 mag, all enticing points.  Haven't ruled out ordering one.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 06:37:05 PM
Good to read there's interest in this unusual gun.  I really like it - because it's different.  And there's something about a revolver; the pull trigger go bang thing.  

One thing to be aware of: the new PC guns do NOT come in those aluminum PC cases!  To save money S&W dropped the aluminum case and went with a blue/gray plastic case.  

I thought that was unfortunate but then found this posting on another discussion board: The cases really weren't anything to brag about, dented easy, cheap latches/locks. I always thought they should have either used a better quality case or just kept them in the standard box.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 06:51:18 PM
I know.  The S & W .500 came in a blue suit case; huge.  That's OK.  It now resides in the gun bag with it's own sleeve, so it's comfortable.  I got tired of taking in and out of the case.

I am intrigued with the R8.   Amazing how something grabs you and won't let you go until you satisfy the desire to own it.  Just went through that with the Seecamp .380.  A month ago, didn't have any, now have three, and they're so scarce.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 06:53:19 PM
I think your 500 is going to be a completely different animal from this 357.  The recoil is minimal on the 357.  That 500 hand cannon is a real monster.
 :P
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 07:11:26 PM
I've always wanted a .357 mag and have looked at the S & W Nighthawk.  Now the R8 comes along.  I have all the large calibers, but somehow skipped the .357.  Not that it is a large caliber, just didn't get one.  Did get the Glock 33, 357 Sig.

  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 12, 2010, 07:26:52 PM
Just MHO...but I'd take that 327 TRR8 right in the front door of hell and not worry as long as I had enough moon clips.  It is just a MAGNIFICENT shooter...lots of confidence in this gun.

And, you're very right about the case, Dan...they aren't the best.  That's why my box went right back  into the cardboard sleeve and up on the top shelf.
Somebody will find it when I'm dead and turn it into a space patrol toy box. ;D
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 12, 2010, 07:27:31 PM
I think you mean the Night Guard?  I have one in 44 magnum (model 329) but it was unreliable right out of the box.  The factory fixed it (longer firing pin) but it took 7 weeks.  S&W may have released that line a bit too early - many new owners complained about FTF issues which is terrible in a new gun marketed specifically as a self-defense gun.  S&W made it right, and they have a lifetime guarantee including shipping both ways, but I'm not a big fan of the NG series because of my experience.  YMMV.

Now the Performance Center guns - different story.  So far no issues.

I like 357 magnum.  My first ever gun was a Ruger Security Six in 6 inch, and it withstood my introduction to reloading and many years of shooting.  I foolishly traded it for a 4 inch and then foolishly sold the 4 inch to a family member.  I have never sold another gun in over 30 years (and hope I never have to).  I buy guns, I don't sell guns.

Bought a S&W model 66 and I still have it.  A stainless .357 magnum in 2 1/2 inch.  Nice small powerful gun.  I had a gunsmith do the action and trigger.  There's nothing like a good S&W trigger (in my opinion).  

And now the R8.  

.357 magnum is nice in that you can shoot so many different loads in both 38 special and .357 magnum.    You can start a new shooter on 38 special wadcutters, then move them to a heavier bullet in 38 special, then +P, then if they're ready you can move to a light .357 magnum.  And eventually go all the way to a heavy 180 grain .357 magnum at 1300 fps.  All in the same gun.  I like that.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 12, 2010, 09:14:21 PM
You're right.  Night Guard.  I knew it was Night something.  Here's one on GunBroker:

http://v2.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=168717568

I like the R8.  I don't ever sell guns either.  What I get, stays.  So when I make the decision to get whatever, it has a home.  Again, the R8 is definitely not ruled out.  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 14, 2010, 11:26:44 AM
Anyone happen to notice the Buy It Now price in the previous GB posting for the R8... phew.

Buy Now! Price was $3,990.00
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 14, 2010, 01:59:00 PM
Ouch!  I wonder if it sold?  I guess not!  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently's
Post by: kanuist on May 16, 2010, 04:28:08 PM
I have a similar S&W 8 shot.  It's a Performance Center 627 V-Comp.  The compensator makes 38's feel like your shooting a 22's.  

(http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss112/kanuist/627vcomp.jpg)  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 16, 2010, 04:50:14 PM
Yes!  I like it!  Nice.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on May 31, 2010, 11:09:29 AM
An R8 just showed up at Bud's, brand new, $1,055 cash price.

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/21_39_72/products_id/39982
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kanuist on May 31, 2010, 08:10:02 PM
I guess I got a really good deal on the S&W 627PC which I got it for $770.  It had been shot, but not enough to score a line around the cylinder.  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on May 31, 2010, 11:00:23 PM
That's almost stealing....but not quite. ;D ;D


Nice buy.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on May 31, 2010, 11:06:00 PM
kanuist.  That was an excellent buy.  I'm usually a day late on good deals.  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on June 09, 2010, 07:11:57 PM
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=171025014

Up to $2,500 and Reserve still Not Met.


http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=173272770

Buy It Now: $3,490
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on June 09, 2010, 08:09:48 PM
That's nuts, when Buds had one for $1055 delivered and this
 nut job wants three times that. ??? :o

John
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 09, 2010, 08:14:19 PM
John.  The S & W Model 327 has a serial no. of 1.  I guess that's why he's asking so much.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: DanR9SF on June 09, 2010, 08:22:07 PM
It was up to $2,500... he may get $3,500 from... someone.  I'd sell my R9 SF for $6,500 right now and even throw-in a couple of recoil springs and 3 black mags.  And a silicone rag.  And some Hoppe's No. 9.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 09, 2010, 08:25:19 PM
That #1 no. means a lot to the right person, for sure!
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on June 09, 2010, 08:41:41 PM
Quote
It was up to $2,500... he may get $3,500 from... someone.  I'd sell my R9 SF for $6,500 right now and even throw-in a couple of recoil springs and 3 black mags.  And a silicone rag.  And some Hoppe's No. 9.


And a holster and some extra grip screws and a Craftsman push mower, for $6,500 I could find some extras to sweeten the pot.

John
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 09, 2010, 08:47:12 PM
I only wish that was an early, early R9 with blue grips, only factory fired, and Corey and Brenden didn't want it.    ;D
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on June 09, 2010, 08:48:49 PM
Quote
That #1 no. means a lot to the right person, for sure!


I agree that the #1 is worth some extra cash, but as you can see, 9mm Kurz in the hard to find little 380s has not sold, and Coreys price is what some dealers sell them for with stock serial numbers.
   Just my opinion, and I could be wrong. ::)

John
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 09, 2010, 08:53:34 PM
That's probably a little different than a #1, even though the Seecamp is a one of a kind.  Just my thinking.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on June 09, 2010, 10:34:50 PM
Well there can only be one (#1) and one (9mm KURZ) and I don't think the wait time for the S&W would be two years, like it is for a Seecamp with a custom serial number.
  
John
  
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 09, 2010, 10:37:03 PM
Just a matter of opinion, I'm sure!
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: yankee2500 on June 10, 2010, 01:19:15 AM
Yep, no doubt about that. I wish the S&W seller the best of luck.

John
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 10, 2010, 12:42:02 PM
That's for sure.  Would be interesting to have, though; a number 1; hmmmm!
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: hedrok on June 21, 2010, 05:41:15 PM
Just in case someone is looking for one of these fine revolvers:

http://glocktalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1233095

I have no connection with the sale....but I would have ZERO objection to being the caretaker of his collection of 1911s.  

I'd like to hear what you guys think of his collection...all for sale.
Title: Re: Picked this up recently
Post by: kjtrains on June 21, 2010, 05:48:26 PM
WOW!  Each one is nice, for sure!