Invariably any time someone posts anything about a model 12 someone on the first 3-4 replies will jump on the "Model 12 cracked frame" bandwagon and it is all downhill from there, except for those of us who have actually owned and used the "Airweight M&P" extensively! Now the question.

The Model 12 is not the only "Airweight" revolver out there, just the only K-Frame one. How about the Models 42, 37 and 38? People can post about any of these and the only reaction is "nice gun" or something similar! Does anyone seriously believe that a J-Frame revolver, manufactured of the same Aluminum alloy and presumably the same heat-treat, and smaller dimensions, is some way miraculously stronger then the K-Frame equivalent and not subject to cracking in the frame lunette the way the Model 12 is always claimed to be? Note: I do not include the late model 300 and 400 series J-Frames in the discussion, just the 37, 38 and 42!

I don't buy it! Why doesn't anyone post the same thing about the J-Frame Airweights? They certainly must break at least as often as the Model 12 wouldn't you think? That is if the Model 12 has the problem so often claimed! Does anyone have an explanation of this apparent anomaly?

I think it is time for all the "Know it alls" who have "heard it somewhere" or "seen it on the internet", but don't have any real-life experience with the Model 12 to get off their high-horse and let those who do have direct knowledge take over the discussion!

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Gunsmithing since 1961

Here, here! I pocket carry a Colt Agent .38 special and I have no frame cracks. Yes, the finish is wearing off, but it shoots just fine.

If I had to carry a .38 special revolver as a duty gun, I would pick a 4" round butt M12.

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John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!

I have two 12-2s with 4" barrels and round butts...they look like they did duty in security guard holsters as neither look fired at all...just some holster wear...neither are cracked...

On the other hand I have had both a 42 and 38 that had cracked frames. I don't plan on owning any more...

I've also never heard of a Colt aluminum frame revolver cracking...or did I miss something...

Muley...you would not want to run a 50 round qualification course with one of these with "duty" type ammo...they are not real pleasant to shoot.

Bob

I’ve owned an alloy frame Colt Cobra since ‘68 and it was carried off-duty and shot regularly. It does not have any frame problems and while no longer carried, does make range trips now and then.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)

Totally agree with the OP. Most of the naysayers are internet drones that have no hands on experience and only repeat what they have read. Now, there have been a few cracked frames pics on 12’s and J airweights posted here but the quantity made verses cracked frames must be minor since the factory still makes them and seems to always replaced cracked frame guns.

The J frames crack regularly. I've come across two in the last ten years, which to me is "regularly . . . "

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Wisdom comes thru fear . . .

Have seen alloy K's (M12's) and various J frames with cracks. Not convinced it was always ammo and shooting related. Believe perhaps over-torquing the barrel may have been the culprit in some.

Sure there's a bit more frequency with the alloy stuff, but pretty miniscule when viewed against production numbers.

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Ret'd LEO
SWCA #2275