steel 1990s j-frames: "Heat treated package?"

[jhackl]

I've noticed a lot of praise on this forum for the Model 60-7, so I began reading up on it and other J-frames in the third edition of Supica & Nahas' SCSW. They make a note that the 60-7 engineering changes in 1990 included a "heat treated package." This note also appears next to the 649-2, but it is not explicitly stated for the contemporary 49-2 or any no-dash 640.

I know that these details are usually trade secrets and whatnot, but since so many people here know so much about these guns, I had to ask:

1.) Was this improvement in heat treating in 1990 sort of a "first step" in the development of the J-magnum frame in 1995?

2.) Was it done to all steel-framed J-frames in 1990 or just the ones 60-7 and 649-2?

3.) Did S&W advertise any changes in their metallurgy "across-the-board" in the 1990s (including blued carbon steel) or was it just for stainless and just in these guns?

I wasn't able to turn up any answers in my searches, so I figured I'd ask. Thanks!

[Dark Knight]

I think your on to something. I have a 649-2 and if I remember correctly in the manual there was an asterik in the 38+P column for a few of the stainless J's but not the carbon steel ones.

[jhackl]

If you don't mind talking about it in public, how do you like your 649-2, Dark Knight?

[Dark Knight]

I love it. Have had it since new. I have Eagle Secret Service grips (the smooth ones) and it rides in a Kramer pocket holster. The Bodyguard series are my favorite J-frames. I like the single action option if you want it. Alot of people are spooked by the looks but I like the art-deco kind of look.

[luis]

1990 saw the introduction of the lifetime warrenty. Smith introduced advance heat treatment to extend the life of guns. The up grade was completed by 1992.

Find 1989 - 1990 gun mags and you will see all the changes at S&W.

[photoman]

Speaking of Bodyguards... My new (to me) factory nickel 38-2 sure is a nice one. I really do like it and the shape of the frame permits a high hold.

[jhackl]

Wow. Pretty impressive. I guess I have to dig a bit to see what you are talking about, luis. Thanks for the tip!