Would anyone know when the Flat cylinder release was discontinued? I recently inherited an Airweight 38, blue, 2" barrel with the Flat cylinder release. It looks like new condition and I may carry it instead of my model 60 because of the big weight difference. I know not to use +P loads, but is modern "regular" ammo, (like critical defense, hyrashok, etc), a problem? Finally, would 90-110gr non +P, or 158- be more gentle on this old timers aluminum frame?
There are 3 styles of flat latches and the last was discontinued in 1966.
First, determine with a magnet if you have a steel cyl. If so, anything but +P loads is OK. I stick to standard loadings with the alloy frame for longevity. The issue is not blowing up the gun, the issue is cumulative damage like frame stretching and cracking at the barrel.
Carry +Ps in it if you like for self defense. If you have to shoot all 5 rounds for defense, you won't hurt the gun, but practice with standard loads.
At least in my opinion, there is little reason to practice with anything other than standard velocity lead bullet loads. If you want to use premium jacketed bullet loads for concealed carry, home defense, or for getting off a few rounds just to see what it feels like, no harm in that. Airweights have been known to experience frame cracking on the frame under the barrel (where the barrel screws into the frame). Something to look out for. If the frame cracks, you have a paperweight or a fishing sinker.
Flat style cylinder release
Linear Mode
