Long-time fan of the K-frames, in 38 special, and just recently noticing that the top-breaks were also pretty commonly chambered in 38 special...

Loving the M&P's, the pre-model 10's, the hand-ejectors in 38 special, altho it seems most of them chambered in .32 are on the I (aka J-frame) platforms. Is there anything I am missing that is a k-frame platform?

The question on the table is, what frame-size are the top-breaks? Are they the I (or J-frame) size, or were any on the K-frame or comparable size frame?

The I/J frames are just a little small for me, and the K-frame is perfect. Haven't had a chance to hold any of the top-breaks, so any info about the frame size would be appreciated.

NOPE! NO Smith top breaks were ever chambered in .38 Special. All the standard Model 2 frames are .38 S&W (not Special). There were a handful of New Model #3 and .44 DA target sighted large frame top breaks chambered in .38-44 Target, but that design pre-dates the invention of .38 Special by several years.

If you're looking for something else that was chambered in a K frame, the only other standard choices are .357 Mag, .32-20 (aka .32 Winchester Centerfire) or the various .22s (.22 LR, .22 Mag, or .22 Jet)

FIY: .32 top breaks are smaller than the I or J platform. .38 top breaks are about the same size as a I or J. The .44 size #3 large frame is very close to the size of a K frame and on the double action version, the grips are almost interchangeable with K's.

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Chris
SWCA #2243 SWHF #292

I may be all wet, but I don't believe the S&W top break actions were ever offered in 38 special. You may be thinking of the .38 double action and Safety Hammerless series of S&W top breaks. They were chambered in the shorter 38 S&W. This same cartridge was chambered in the 5 shot I/J frame Regulation Police and Terrier revolvers and in the K frame lend lease revolvers sent to the British and her commonwealth countries during WWII. These were later made as the Model 11.
The top breaks are a horse of a different color as far as frame size goes. I think the .38 DA and hammerless versions are a little smaller than the J frame RB hand ejector.
The larger top breaks, such as the model 3, are larger framed. Hopefully others will chime in here.
John

The guys above are right.