I have a six-inch Model 28, bought it for my father in 1974. Doesn't need a trigger job.
Recoil bothered me at first, but I put some Pachmayer grips on it, and now it's a dream gun. Ordinarily I'm a 1911 person, but this one shakes my assumptions.
- oldman
Model 28 is a noble chunk of iron.
I bought my 4 inch in 1972 then went on to carry it as a patrolman until 1989. In semi annual qualification and monthly range practice I have no idea how many rounds I put thru that piece with never a hitch. Truly one of S&W's winners. Most of the guys carried 19's and slobbered all over the 28 at the range, it's heavy, but just lends to holding real steady.
You're right, the dinky walnut grips when your hand gets sweaty or some dirt on them were a nightmare especially on rapid fire. Pachmayer's were a godsend.
It holds a special spot in the gun safe, may take it with me at my end, but all my grandkids want dibs on it.