Chambered in .357 Magnum. The postwar .357 Magnum revolver was extremely popular among law enforcement officers. Many police agencies were interested in purchasing such a weapon — except for cost. In 1954, S&W produced a new model called at the time, "Highway Patrolman". Had all desirable performance features of the deluxe Model 27 but lacked cosmetic features that drove up price. Finish is a matte blue; rib sandblasted instead of checkered or serrated; grips standard checkered walnut. Barrel lengths 4 in. and 6.5 in. On late models, 6.5-in. barrel reduced to 6 in., as on all S&Ws. Designation changed to Model 28 in 1957. S&W discontinued Model 28 in 1986. Note: Add 25% premium for pre-Model 28. Beware, most nickel variations seen are refinished, though a very few factory nickel examples exist and are worth multiples of prices listed below. Three engineering changes.