From what I've read, I'm not sure that's true. What I read said they were case hardened after making. In some regards, having them hard through out would seem good, but parts hardened that way can break or even shatter. Leaving a softer core allows some deformation under stress without breaking or even cracking the part, while the case hardness allows for a durable wear surface.

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So many S&W's, so few funds!!