The Model 627 is a single-action/double-action revolver, all made of stainless steel, based on Smith & Wesson’s large-sized N-Frame, manufactured to handle magnum cartridges like the. 357 magnum, .41 magnum, .44 magnum and .45 Colt. With a large cylinder of 8-round capacity, this particular model shoots .357 magnum cartridges, as well as shorter .38 Special ones, for those who prefer reduced recoil and recreational shooting. There are several variants of this revolver and they differ in barrel length. The smallest comes with a 2.625-inch barrel, and 4- and 5-inch barrels are also available. They also differ in a variety of grips, including rubber grips, checkered wooden finger-grooved, etc. The front sight on this gun is interchangeable and the rear sight is adjustable. Overall, this is an extremely powerful, full stainless-steel revolver, perfect for serious competition and self-defense situations.