Hi Everyone,
I've got an S&W 65-8 Ladysmith. The 65-8 has a two-piece barrel, like the new 66's, and does not have the flat spot at the bottom of the forcing cone.
I'd like to shoot 125 grain bullets at 357 magnum velocities (1300+ fps) out of the Ladysmith if I can do so without risking damage to the forcing cone. I know that regular use of 125 grain jacketed bullets in a k-frame should be avoided. My question is, does the risk of cracking the forcing cone go down if you shoot lead 125 grain bullets instead of jacketed?
My understanding is that, with the two-piece barrel, the risk of forcing cone cracking is reduced, but I'm wondering if using lead bullets reduces the risk further.
Thanks for your help.