Flash pitting

[Zackary]

I'm interested in a 5 screw Model 15. The owner describes the gun as having " flash pitting". I've never heard this term before. What is it and is it a warning sign? Thank you for your time and expertise.

[Dave T]

Zack, I've never heard that term either. Maybe someone smarter, or at least more experienced, will join in and tell both of us.

Dave

[Davwingman]

Could that be another term for topstrap erosion? Just guessing.

[john traveler]

That term "flash pitting" sounds like an unsophisticated description of forcing cone and top strap erosion. In a .38 Special, you would have to fire a HELL OF A LOT of ammunition for any forcing cone erosion to show. In a .357 magnum, several hundred rounds of slow-burning ball powder like WW-296 can be enough to leave some forcing cone erosion, but .38 Specials are not normally loaded with such slow powders. Maybe some pictures would help?

[wheelgun610]

Originally Posted by john traveler

That term "flash pitting" sounds like an unsophisticated description of forcing cone and top strap erosion.

I think the term more commomly used to describe that condition would be 'flame cutting'. I'd ask the seller if that's what he's referring to....

Mark

[rere]

I'm thinking finish freckling. Blue or nickel damage, but not severe enough to really "pit". I'd never heard this term either.