Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > Smith & Wesson Revolvers > S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980
o

Notices

S&W Revolvers: 1961 to 1980 3-Screw PINNED Barrel SWING-OUT Cylinder Hand Ejectors WITH Model Numbers


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 09-27-2020, 08:40 AM
nksmfamjp nksmfamjp is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Central OH
Posts: 235
Likes: 59
Liked 155 Times in 82 Posts
Default Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check

So, a s&w 16 32 mag is a rare bird....relatively.

It I wanted to turn a common model like a 15 into a 32 mag custom with a match grade barrel, how do I get a cylinder?

Is anyone making them from bar stock?
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 09-27-2020, 09:21 AM
cgt4570's Avatar
cgt4570 cgt4570 is offline
SWCA Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: Mount Carmel, TN USA
Posts: 3,167
Likes: 1,620
Liked 3,176 Times in 932 Posts
Default

You use just a Model 17 cylinder and re-chamber it. PM me if you need one. I have a couple spares plus a couple 617 and 648 cylinders if you wanted stainless.
I had Hamilton Bowen assemble a .327 Fed Mag for me a few years back.
It's a pre-15 frame, Mod 17 cylinder and an 8-3/8" Model 16-4 barrel.
It has a vintage Leupold scope with Buehler mount and rings.
__________________
Chris
SWCA #2243 SWHF #292
Reply With Quote
The Following 8 Users Like Post:
  #3  
Old 09-27-2020, 09:25 AM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

The cylinder is relatively easy. Ream a 6 shot K 22 cylinder. I did it for my model 16-4 so I could leave original one stock. Others also have. But finding a K frame 32 caliber barrel is a real problem or for that mater any .312 barrel material with an appropriate twist. The S&W barrels rarely show up, You could have a K 22 barrel reamed and rifled, People that do that work are hard to find and usually have a long waiting list. Lining a 38 barrel is not recommended because the liner would be very thin in the forcing cone area and the round is to hot for that. You could have a piece of barrel turned and threaded, the the OD reduced in front of the frame so a drilled out 38 heavy barrel could slip over it and meet the frame. This "sleeve" could be silver soldered eon to the actual barrel. This would give you a solid area in the forcing cone and the portion threaded to the frame.

I did make up a dual caliber gun that fires 32 S&W using a reamed K 22 cylinder in a 32-20 frame

By the time you buy a barrel blank, a cylinder and a Model 15. Spend the money to have the barrel turned and threaded, the cylinder reamed and some kind of forward lock installed, get everything fitted it would be cheaper to just buy a model 16
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #4  
Old 09-27-2020, 11:18 AM
nksmfamjp nksmfamjp is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Central OH
Posts: 235
Likes: 59
Liked 155 Times in 82 Posts
Default

So, it seems like you start with a 17 and put a custom 32 barrel on it.

I’m surprised nobody is making a machined from bar stock cylinder blank.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 09-27-2020, 04:13 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

There are, Bowen is one that comes to mind and there are others. Check his website.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #6  
Old 09-27-2020, 04:40 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by nksmfamjp View Post
So, it seems like you start with a 17 and put a custom 32 barrel on it.

I’m surprised nobody is making a machined from bar stock cylinder blank.

The problem with using a K 22 frame to make a 32 is rim fire to center fire. Moving the firing pin also means dealing tith the firing pin bushing. Not impossible but not as easy as starting with a centerfire frame


I emailed Bowen awhile back and he said he didn't have anymore blank K frame cylinders. Will that change in the future???

K frame 22 cylinders are not hard to find and ream.

lothar-walther.com has .312 caliber 1 in 16" twist blanks for $220 plus shipping.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #7  
Old 09-27-2020, 06:26 PM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central VA
Posts: 8,598
Likes: 1,551
Liked 9,322 Times in 4,182 Posts
Default

Friend steelslaver nailed it. Although some people like Jebus35745 have done something similar to what you suggest, changing the firing pin from rim to center fire adds unnecessary effort and expense. I had a stainless version built on a Model 66 using 617 parts I bought room vendors and had rebored. My barrel was done by a man who has now passed away, but others are doing the same work. As for reaming the cylinder and the assembly, it was done by Andy Horvath of LaGrange, OH. If you aren’t limiting yourself to an original barrel, any revolversmith who specializes in PPC Guns can turn one from a blank and install it for you.

BTW, from what I’ve been able to learn, Hamilton Bowen no longer has the cylinder blanks and seems to have discontinued having them produced, so 22 cal cylinders seem to be the best pathway to getting a 32 cylinder.

I’ve actually had 2 K frame 32s built in recent years, the first the stainless 327 Fed Mag (dubbed “Project 616”) and later an homage to the 16-3 using a NOS Model 16 barrel, but another K22 cylinder. I’d be happy to discuss my experiences with you, just send me a PM with your e-mail and I’ll shoot you digital copies of the articles I wrote about them.

Froggie

PS Check out Project 616 and My Faux K-32 is Here! as well as a similar discussion at this thread Pre-WW II 32 Multi-Cylinders?

Last edited by Green Frog; 09-27-2020 at 07:01 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #8  
Old 09-27-2020, 06:54 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by nksmfamjp View Post
So, it seems like you start with a 17 and put a custom 32 barrel on it.

I’m surprised nobody is making a machined from bar stock cylinder blank.
No you had the right idea using a Model 15 in the first place for two reasons:

1. The firing pin issue mentioned above.

2. Model 15s are easier to find and generally a lot less expensive to purchase than 17s.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #9  
Old 10-11-2020, 03:33 PM
Jersey Doug Jersey Doug is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 215
Likes: 121
Liked 210 Times in 83 Posts
Default .22 L.R. cylinders in a non-.22 centerfire Frame ??????

Have k-frame guns of every type from the '70's and four extra .22 cylinders. Have switched every combination of .22 L.R. cylinder to centerfire frames without success? If anyone here achieved a working combination would really appreciate knowing the Model with dash numbers?

Last edited by Jersey Doug; 10-11-2020 at 03:37 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 10-11-2020, 06:13 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

Well specifically what was the issue of your unsuccessful attempts?
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 10-11-2020, 06:57 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

TO use a K frame 22 cylinder in anything but model 13 or 19 cylinder the first thing you will meed to to is either shave the recesses off the K22 cylinder or carefully file back the frame lug as it will prevent a recessed cylinder from working. The only other problems are length of barrel extension and the length of yoke tube. Then, there may or may not be some timing issues. But, I run into those way less than yoke tube length. I have also found that sometimes the gas ring is a bit long. Something like Prussian blue will tell you where your tight.

So, the K22 cylinders will not go into the 38 special guns because none of them were recessed and the K22 cylinder will bind on frame lug. They should close (with right tube length) on a recessed 13 or 19 frame except they would be to short and have a huge B/C gap. because those guns used longer magnum cylinders and their barrel extension is shorter. If there is a yoke tube length problem you can figure it on by removing extractor star. This will allow the cylinder to close (once frame lug is dealt with) Then You can measure the distance between cylinder and recoil shield, depth of recess in cylinder for ratchet and ratchet thickness. Do the math and cut down tip of yoke tube. Tip you can make a yoke trimmer using a case trimmer (out of the frame) and a fairly long pilot turned to just fit inside the yoke tube. Then a careful clean up with a nice flat diamond stone

It is kind of like reaming a recessed 44 mag cylinder to 45 colt and sticking it in a 25-2 frame. It will fit, one the tube length is right, the frame lug is replaced or filed back and the barrel extension is cut back it fits right in. LOL You will need to recut the forcing cone too of course.

I have made a K22 cylinder reamed to 327 mag work in my 16-4. one reamed to 32 S&W long work in a 32-20. Made one into a 22 Harvey Kay Chuck and fit it to a model 10 frame with a K22 barrel. I have a K22 cylinder that has been reamed to 22TCM and have usedx it in my 22 Harvey Kay Chuck.

Last edited by steelslaver; 10-11-2020 at 07:14 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 10-11-2020, 08:04 PM
Jersey Doug Jersey Doug is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 215
Likes: 121
Liked 210 Times in 83 Posts
Default Making a .327

Steelslayer,,, Your info's saving me many hours of mismatching, thanks. Tried what you said, put the 22 cylinder in my M-19. It does work, cycles perfectly. Already have .22 L.R. (like new) barrels converted to .32 just need the cylinder opened up to .327 is that correct?
Attached Images
File Type: jpg Barrels .32 S&W.jpg (137.6 KB, 61 views)

Last edited by Jersey Doug; 10-11-2020 at 08:08 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #13  
Old 10-11-2020, 09:08 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

Yes. but I wouldn't take apart a nice model 19 to do it, when a model 15 or 14 frame will work if you remove about .04 of the frame lug. I have another plan and just ordered another J&G model 10 frame (4th one) to execute it.

I have an new in the white 32-20 barrel coming from Numerich, have a K 22 cylinder, a k frame rear sight and a model 14 barrel.

Ream the cylinder to 327, cut the barrel extension off the model 14 barrel and drill and ream it out to 13/32 (.40625), remove the front sight from 32-20 barrel and turn it down to .4055 till just in front of its threads. place it on dry ice to take it down to -100f and shrink it. Heat what was the model 14 barrel up to about 350f to expand it and slide them together and cause them to shrink fit.

Mill the model 10 frame for adjustable sights and hey a K frame 327 Federal for about $500

I need to finish my Smolt first though. S many guns to built and hunting season is almost here to.

Last edited by steelslaver; 10-11-2020 at 09:09 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #14  
Old 10-11-2020, 09:44 PM
Jersey Doug Jersey Doug is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 215
Likes: 121
Liked 210 Times in 83 Posts
Default M-16 in .327

Steelslayer ,, This is my M-15 with M-16 barrel and M-16 cylinder reamed to .327 . With .32 wadcutters and bullseye most accurate of all my guns. With .327 mag rounds likes the long barrel's burn time.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg xzdfgbhnjm.JPG (100.9 KB, 90 views)
File Type: jpg 1-target shooting byhjn.jpg (52.4 KB, 88 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #15  
Old 10-11-2020, 10:48 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

I have been on the hunt for a factory model 16 barrel for a couple years. Missed one for sale here on forum as it didn't last long. Factory cylinders are hard to find to. I have been thinking of making one for a while. I do have some J and I frames and a 32-20 and a 16-4.

I saw a pre model K32 at a gun show here today. Nicely refinished with fairly recent production stocks. $2500 was to rich for me. Nice looking gun, but not worth that with refinish and wrong stocks. I am going to built one
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #16  
Old 10-12-2020, 06:15 AM
StrawHat's Avatar
StrawHat StrawHat is offline
SWCA Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Northeast Ohio
Posts: 5,994
Likes: 9,195
Liked 13,468 Times in 3,976 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by steelslaver View Post
Yes. but I wouldn't take apart a nice model 19 to do it, when a model 15 or 14 frame will work if you remove about .04 of the frame lug. I have another plan and just ordered another J&G model 10 frame (4th one) to execute it.

I have an new in the white 32-20 barrel coming from Numerich, have a K 22 cylinder, a k frame rear sight and a model 14 barrel.

Ream the cylinder to 327, cut the barrel extension off the model 14 barrel and drill and ream it out to 13/32 (.40625), remove the front sight from 32-20 barrel and turn it down to .4055 till just in front of its threads. place it on dry ice to take it down to -100f and shrink it. Heat what was the model 14 barrel up to about 350f to expand it and slide them together and cause them to shrink fit.

Mill the model 10 frame for adjustable sights and hey a K frame 327 Federal for about $500

I need to finish my Smolt first though. S many guns to built and hunting season is almost here to.
I am sure I speak for others when I say I wish had your shop and skills.

Kevin
__________________
Unshared knowledge is wasted.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #17  
Old 10-12-2020, 09:31 PM
Jersey Doug Jersey Doug is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 215
Likes: 121
Liked 210 Times in 83 Posts
Default

Steelslaver, Have one last question.. My M-16 .32H&R (now .327 mag) is not countersunk, my M-19 is countersunk. When sent the K22 cylinder out to be converted to .327 should it then be countersunk or not?
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 10-13-2020, 12:41 AM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

If the chambers weren't counter-bored then the rear of the cyl had to be faced off for proper head space or the cyl couldn't close.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 10-13-2020, 08:11 AM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

If your going to use it in the model 19 frame with a 32 barrel you can leave the recesses as the model 19 frame lug is set for a counter sunk cylinder. But, if you use it in the 16-4 frame you will need to shave the countersunk portion of cylinder off or trim back the 16-4s frame lug. Something I would not do as a stock 16-4 commands a premium price.

If you trim it back and use it in both frames for some reason, it would still work in the 19 frame. It is just that when open the cylinder would move back the .04 to hit the frame lug when ejecting and as you load the cylinder it will move back forward and close normally. If you were to hold itt muzzle up the side of the ratchett might hang up a bit on side of recoil shield, but then your ammo would be falling out anyway if you did that.

This is a common deal with dual cylinder 45 acp- 45 colts. The acp cylinder has a lot of space between recoil shield and rear of cylinder (moon clips + case heads) and a 45 colt just has the rim. So normally for the colt cylinder needs the lug way bag and this means the acp cylinder is real sloppy when open. There is another way on them and gthat is to cut a .04 ledge from the rear OD of the colt cylinder. This lets the lug remain at acp length and gives the colt cylinder clearance on the lug.

I did away with all my dual cylinder 45s though. The ones that I want to fire both use 45colt cylinders with clip recesses for acps.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 10-13-2020, 09:31 AM
CH4's Avatar
CH4 CH4 is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Mojave Desert
Posts: 10,254
Likes: 17,901
Liked 23,938 Times in 6,786 Posts
Default

FYI:

Here’re are my .22lr 17-6 (top) and .32 H&R 16-4 (bottom). You can see the difference in frame lug size. The frame lug on the .22lr with recessed cylinder is much smaller/narrower.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg 45036389-8E81-4CB9-97B3-0912B3383129.jpg (175.6 KB, 72 views)
File Type: jpg C8B6E3AE-AF7B-435C-8080-EA2C53CBFC55.jpg (24.3 KB, 57 views)
__________________
213th FBINA
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #21  
Old 10-13-2020, 12:29 PM
RevolverP320's Avatar
RevolverP320 RevolverP320 is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: May 2020
Location: Boise Idaho
Posts: 50
Likes: 946
Liked 128 Times in 24 Posts
Default

This may be a dumb question, Would a .32 long barrel and cylinder work for 327 mag? Granted chambers would need reamed... I'm interested in making a K frame 327 mag. Finding a mod 16 barrel seems impossible. I emailed Smith last week asking them to make a K frame 327 mag with a 3 inch barrel.. of course they replied with "your opinion matters and we'll foward your email to our design team" it's a long shot but hey.
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 10-13-2020, 12:49 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

A 32 long barrel will work fine IF it is for a K frame and IF you can find one Same applies for a cylinder. Both are extremely uncommon. Numerich does have some 32-20 barrels for sale, but they must have been for the first early models as they have no lug under the barrel for the ejector rod and no rib, just front sight. I am going to use one of those. using everything in front of the frame threads as a liner for a drilled out model 14 barrel

A regular J frame cylinder can be reamed to 327 Federal bur the bullets would stick out the cylinder face. They do make nice 32 H&R mags

They did make J frame 327 mags, but those used a longer cylinder than any of the other J 32s and good luck finding a spare one of those.

Last edited by steelslaver; 10-13-2020 at 12:55 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #23  
Old 10-13-2020, 01:12 PM
needsmostuff needsmostuff is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Tucson,AZ
Posts: 290
Likes: 333
Liked 595 Times in 132 Posts
Default

Not sayin it's right ,,, not sayin it's wrong.
But I am continually amazed at the monumental efforts taken to attain a K Frame 327. Certainly doable with the help of a talented gunsmith and a substantial mix of hard to find parts and cash.
I do like a well built S&W but I guess I'm lazy. Me,,,, I just get one of many off the shelf (made in any configuration you could want) Ruger , do some tidy up tuning , and go shooting.
Having been doing the hot 32s for quite a while ,if it HAD to be a S&W I could be quite content with a Mod 16 32mag . Properly loaded it can really knock on the door of a 327! And while expensive I would guestimate still cheaper than a custom.
Too old to fight windmills anymore when there is a easy road to take I guess.

Last edited by needsmostuff; 10-13-2020 at 01:21 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #24  
Old 10-13-2020, 01:45 PM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central VA
Posts: 8,598
Likes: 1,551
Liked 9,322 Times in 4,182 Posts
Default

Folks who are still wondering about mixing and matching recessed vs non-recessed chambers etc should go back and read the two threads I linked way back in Post #7. I’ve done both, and explained how and why each was used. In short, the stainless was built on a Model 66 ND (357 with recessed chambers) so I kept the recessed chambers. The faux Model 16 was built on a Model 14-3 so the cylinder was milled to match the Model 14 cylinder (non-recessed) it replaced.

To recap what I’ve opined in the past, it doesn’t make any real difference that I can see as to which way you go... it’s best to do what the gun wants you to do!

Froggie
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #25  
Old 10-13-2020, 01:57 PM
needsmostuff needsmostuff is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Tucson,AZ
Posts: 290
Likes: 333
Liked 595 Times in 132 Posts
Default

delete ,,,,Whoops,,,,, Posted in wrong section ,,,,,Sorry

Last edited by needsmostuff; 10-13-2020 at 02:02 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #26  
Old 10-13-2020, 02:26 PM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central VA
Posts: 8,598
Likes: 1,551
Liked 9,322 Times in 4,182 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Jersey Doug View Post
Steelslaver, Have one last question.. My M-16 .32H&R (now .327 mag) is not countersunk, my M-19 is countersunk. When sent the K22 cylinder out to be converted to .327 should it then be countersunk or not?
Jersey Doug,

I actually was inspired to write the previous post to answer your question... upon rereading it, I’m not sure how well I did. If I’ve muddied the waters, please PM me and I’ll try to be more clear.

Froggie
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 10-13-2020, 02:30 PM
LCC LCC is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: May 2019
Location: Oregon
Posts: 980
Likes: 1,248
Liked 2,286 Times in 675 Posts
Default

can someone explain why the heck Smith quit making the .32 mag? Just seems a 6 shot J-frame with a 3" option would become a best seller, or a K frame with a 7 shot.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #28  
Old 10-13-2020, 02:46 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

I have reamed a 30-1 cyl to 327 Fed Mag. Most off the shelf 327 ammo works just fine, but the bullet tip is right at the end of the cyl. Bullets that stick out of the cyl .002"-.003" actually work as well because the bar/cyl gap accommodates the slight over length. However the recoil in the small frame is a thing to behold and therefore not advised!
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #29  
Old 10-13-2020, 05:00 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by LCC View Post
can someone explain why the heck Smith quit making the .32 mag? Just seems a 6 shot J-frame with a 3" option would become a best seller, or a K frame with a 7 shot.
Every thing S&W produces (any manufacturer) is based on sales success. It wasn't/isn't that big of a seller.

Another issue was finding ammo for it, especially now! If Trump wins, that issue will subside.

It's much more fun shooting the .327 in a K frame than in a J frame, even with a 6" barrel. Although it would make a potent, dandy light packing trail gun and one could always drop back to 32 Mag or 32 long for fun plinking.

All things considered, it's basically a niche market cartridge so far, and more popular with handloaders which is a relatively small market.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #30  
Old 10-13-2020, 05:16 PM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central VA
Posts: 8,598
Likes: 1,551
Liked 9,322 Times in 4,182 Posts
Default

Since the de facto standard J frame is the 357 mag length, the 327 is certainly an available round for it, however the 327 Fed Mag “is not your grandfather’s 32.” The K frame, on the other hand, is ideal for the 327 at factory levels or a little less. The little 32 S&W Long is kinda overwhelmed in the K platform, but with the 327/K frame combination we find a true match made in heaven. At least that’s the way it seems with my Project 616.

Froggie
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #31  
Old 10-13-2020, 09:14 PM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

I can not imagine a 327 in a J frame being worse than a 357 in one or for that mater 45acps in my 325 with a scandium cylinder. But,I don't doubt it is snappy. I wouldn't mind trying it myself.

Hondo. I find it interesting that a 327 will fit in a standard J frame cylinder once reamed. I just happen to have a spare 32 cal cylinder and a shooter grade J frame 32. Plus, 4D has the reamer.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #32  
Old 10-13-2020, 11:30 PM
Muley Gil Muley Gil is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: The SW Va Blue Ridge
Posts: 17,474
Likes: 88,978
Liked 24,784 Times in 8,482 Posts
Default

It is on hold right now, but I'm working on a M15 conversion to .327 Federal. I have a M16-4 cylinder that has been rechambered to .327 and a 6" M53 barrel that has been re-rifled to .32. I had an extra .32-20 cylinder and it appears to be a drop-in fit.
__________________
John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #33  
Old 10-14-2020, 12:02 AM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by steelslaver View Post
I can not imagine a 327 in a J frame being worse than a 357 in one or for that mater 45acps in my 325 with a scandium cylinder. But,I don't doubt it is snappy. I wouldn't mind trying it myself.

Hondo. I find it interesting that a 327 will fit in a standard J frame cylinder once reamed. I just happen to have a spare 32 cal cylinder and a shooter grade J frame 32. Plus, 4D has the reamer.
Yes, not as bad as a 357 J frame, 327 is just snappy and not too much fun to shoot many.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 10-14-2020, 06:25 AM
steelslaver's Avatar
steelslaver steelslaver is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Central Montana
Posts: 13,625
Likes: 12,742
Liked 39,093 Times in 9,967 Posts
Default

I am sure it is not fun to plink with. But, its like my 325. It is my carry gun, I take it to the range and put some clips though it and carry it. Not much plinking. But, with a J 327 you could plink all day long with 32 longs, then stuff it with 327 for a small carry gun. But, I have to wonder if the advantage over good H&R magnum loads is enough to make it worth it.

My wife likes to carry one of my small 32 longs which I load on the warm side witth cast semi wad cutters for her. Small hands and recoil sensitive. She once shot my 500 S&W though. She was at the range with me and got curious. I explained all about it, a scoped 8 3/8" model. She was still game. Said it hurt her back and prefers the 32s
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 10-14-2020, 06:48 AM
SuperMan SuperMan is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Rochester, NH USA
Posts: 4,001
Likes: 1,620
Liked 4,900 Times in 1,701 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Muley Gil View Post
It is on hold right now, but I'm working on a M15 conversion to .327 Federal. I have a M16-4 cylinder that has been rechambered to .327 and a 6" M53 barrel that has been re-rifled to .32. I had an extra .32-20 cylinder and it appears to be a drop-in fit.
Have you ever solved the issue with there being too much cylinder gap because the barrel shank on the 53 barrel is shorter than a 17 or 16 barrel?

Easiest, but probably the most expensive, way to get a .327 K-fame is using a Model 53... Rebore the barrel...rechamber the .22 Rimfire cylinder and you are done... The expensive part of course being the doner gun...

Still have the original barrel and cylinder so it can be put back to .22 Jet in the future.

Bob
Attached Images
File Type: jpg 002_zpsjww00hjt.jpg (143.5 KB, 24 views)
File Type: jpg 005_zpshygjw8ti.jpg (119.8 KB, 25 views)
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #36  
Old 10-14-2020, 09:55 AM
Green Frog Green Frog is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central VA
Posts: 8,598
Likes: 1,551
Liked 9,322 Times in 4,182 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by SuperMan View Post
Have you ever solved the issue with there being too much cylinder gap because the barrel shank on the 53 barrel is shorter than a 17 or 16 barrel?

Easiest, but probably the most expensive, way to get a .327 K-fame is using a Model 53... Rebore the barrel...rechamber the .22 Rimfire cylinder and you are done... The expensive part of course being the doner gun...

Still have the original barrel and cylinder so it can be put back to .22 Jet in the future.

Bob
Bob,

The limiting factor here seems to be the (long) 22 RF cylinder from the Model 53 since there a few reports of shot out Mod 53 barrels being available for sale. I like the idea of being able to reverse your process as you suggest here, but if you’ve found the barrel and cylinder, you could just as easily use a Model 19 donor, couldn’t you? IIRC, the cylinder window in the 19 and 53 are the same size, but the 53 barrel tenon just doesn’t extend as far into the window to make room for the longer cylinder, right?

Froggie
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 10-14-2020, 12:15 PM
Muley Gil Muley Gil is offline
US Veteran
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: The SW Va Blue Ridge
Posts: 17,474
Likes: 88,978
Liked 24,784 Times in 8,482 Posts
Default

"Have you ever solved the issue with there being too much cylinder gap because the barrel shank on the 53 barrel is shorter than a 17 or 16 barrel?"

I'm going to set the barrel back.
__________________
John 3:16
WAR EAGLE!
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #38  
Old 10-14-2020, 12:47 PM
SuperMan SuperMan is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Rochester, NH USA
Posts: 4,001
Likes: 1,620
Liked 4,900 Times in 1,701 Posts
Default

Froggie...IF one could find a Jet barrel and .22 Rimfire cylinder then yes, it would drop right into a 19 frame... The last Model 53 cylinder I saw for sale was on ebay about three years ago...and it went for $800.00...

Last year I was surfing the completed auctions on GunBroker and saw where I had missed a 1961 4" Model 53 that only had the .22 Rimfire cylinder....and it went for ....$800.00... I would have sent that right down to Jack Huntington and I'd have a pair of .327s...the ones S&W should have made.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #39  
Old 10-14-2020, 02:33 PM
Hondo44 Hondo44 is offline
SWCA Member

Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: California
Posts: 19,208
Likes: 11,815
Liked 20,511 Times in 8,548 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by SuperMan View Post
Have you ever solved the issue with there being too much cylinder gap because the barrel shank on the 53 barrel is shorter than a 17 or 16 barrel?

Easiest, but probably the most expensive, way to get a .327 K-fame is using a Model 53... Rebore the barrel...rechamber the .22 Rimfire cylinder and you are done... The expensive part of course being the doner gun...

Still have the original barrel and cylinder so it can be put back to .22 Jet in the future.

Bob

Yeah like Muley Gil posted, set the barrel back. The only real option; and it might have to be set back a little anyway to clock the barrel. The great thing is it'll never show on the straight HB. The tapered barrels are the problem if you have to set the barrel back very much.

You have a great dual set up there. If I find a 53, I always wanted to rechamber the .22 cyl or the Jet cyl to the Super Jet. Then fire form the cases to the sharp shoulder Super (like the .256 Win Mag). No more sticking cases and more powder capacity.
__________________
Jim
S&WCA #819

Last edited by Hondo44; 10-14-2020 at 02:38 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #40  
Old 11-15-2020, 09:11 AM
SuperMan SuperMan is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Rochester, NH USA
Posts: 4,001
Likes: 1,620
Liked 4,900 Times in 1,701 Posts
Default

Hondo...I can only imagine that if a .22 Jet will burn out a barrel in about 1500 rounds, if that, a Super Jet will do it even faster...

As I posted a little while ago on the Model 53 thread, these guns were not made for "shooting" they were made for hunting.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #41  
Old 12-02-2020, 01:01 AM
Jersey Doug Jersey Doug is offline
Member
Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check Custom S&W in 32 magnum feasibility check  
Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 215
Likes: 121
Liked 210 Times in 83 Posts
Default project .327 mag update

Mentioned to my local gun shop / range looking for a trade-in K frame to build the next .327 from. Now have four center fires to chose from. First photo the latest purchase, an old 4 screw model 15 as in donor class condition (cost $275) most likely the one.

Have a bunch of 6" M-17 barrels already converted, plus two 4" Model 18s and a 6" M-53 jet mag out being done now.

On the cylinder using the "jet" barrel choices are, either have my M-16's cylinder do double duty on both guns or have the "jet" barrel cut back to the shorter cylinder. I do have the spare M-53 L.R. long cylinder, being it's in the $800 range, that's not happening.

As it seems late model 16's are going for in the $1,500 range interested in what this alternative project will tally. So far so good. Thanks to those here for needed guidance!
Attached Images
File Type: jpg S&W M-15 abc.jpg (150.7 KB, 16 views)
File Type: jpg S&W m-15s and 19s.jpg (103.7 KB, 19 views)
File Type: jpg Barrels .32 S&W.jpg (137.6 KB, 14 views)

Last edited by Jersey Doug; 12-03-2020 at 04:48 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Custom Case for a Custom Engraved .357 Magnum RKmesa S&W Hand Ejectors: 1896 to 1961 25 09-11-2020 07:05 PM
Feasibility of conversion barrels with today's market? lrrifleman Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 33 07-29-2020 01:15 PM
My Custom 2.0 Is Coming Together! Check It Out! JakeTheDevil Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 2 09-26-2017 03:57 PM
Amazing CUSTOM leather....check this out! dotdsd334 Gun Leather & Carry Gear 14 11-26-2014 02:32 AM
Price check on custom S&W 686-6 Blaine S&W Revolvers: 1980 to the Present 5 10-07-2008 06:22 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 04:00 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)