I was wondering if anyone here could answer a question for me. I am considering getting an extra cylinder for my model 65 and having it converted to 9mm. That way I can shoot 9mm and also have the ability to swap it back to its factory configuration. I was just wondering about the fixed sights. I would like to know if POA/POI would be way off with the 9mm conversion. I can deal with a couple of inches high or low, which is what I am assuming would happen. I also plan on using 147gr 9mm instead of 115gr. Any help would be appreciated.

The bore of the barrel would be for a .357", while the 9mm is .355. While this is workable, it will not result in the best accuracy.

__________________
H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

I'm not worried about having the best accuracy. I've also thought about loading my own 9mm with 147gr lead bullets sized to .356 or .357 to see if that would improve accuracy.

Unless you have access to free 9mm ammo, I can't see were it would be worth it. You would be better off just shooting .38's.

I want a 9mm revolver just because its something I have always wanted, and I would like it in a K-Frame. I know all the pros and cons of the conversion, I would just like to know if the sights will be on or close to on point.

If all you are really asking is regarding the sights, see if you can find a 4inch model 547 and do some measurements. I doubt that is a very popular conversion where you will get any first hand comparison.

Check out the new S&W Model 986 9MM revolver. Very happy with mine.

Attached Files

986 PIC resized (2).pdf (689.9 KB, 101 views)

If it's what you want, it's whet you want!
I think with experimenting on bullet size and powder loads, you should be able to get reasonable, if not the same accuracy.
If the bullet diameter is the same or close, bullet weight very close, and fps close, why not?
I don't know how much length of bullet is going to factor in, but I for one would be interested in your findings.
I think it might come out well.
You might end up being the only authority on this conversion!
Good luck, and let us know what you decide.
Have fun and stay safe,
Jim

Are 6 shot moon clips for 9mm available? I know they are for 5 shot cylinders, but I don't know about 6 shot cylinders.
Also, the rear of the cylinder would need to be machined to leave a rim around the rear if using moon clips to prevent excess fore and aft movement when the cylinder is open.
On my 4" 547, the barrel is 0.775" in diameter, and the distance from the bottom of the barrel to the top of the sight is 0.975".

__________________
Tom
1560

I had Pinnacle convert a 360J to 9mm 5+ years ago and have been very satisfied with it. It shoots close enough to POA that I've had no trouble qualifying with it on the duty weapon qual course of fire (3-25yds), even won an IDPA BUG match with it. The .355" bullet vs .357" bore thing is way over blown, it's hardly like the 9mm projectiles are falling through the barrel, you can't even just push one through. They're plenty accurate, no keyholing or anything like that. I've only ever shot factory ammo through it.

Of course, this is my experience with a J frame, YMMV with your gun, though I don't see why it wouldn't work for you, too.

__________________
Don't kiss smiling dogs!

If you do go for it on the 65, why not have it bored for the 9/25 Dillon. Just in case you want to do some expermenting??

I have a 940 in 9x19 and love it.

Thanks Skeetr57, thats the kind of info I was looking for. My 65 has a 3" barrel and the front sight is roughly 0.015" taller.

Dude, model 65's are way too sweet to be monkeyin' around with like that!

As stated above it can & has been done..
I fit a 940s cylinder to a Model 642 several years ago & it produced a powerhouse Airweight convertable as the end play was set via shims in the 940 cylinder...
I would try an find a spare M65/M66 cylinder to have modified & also cut for moon clips if it were me leaving the unmodified cylinder to be put back in your now $800+ revolver.. If done right you wouldn't even have to change the hand..
Here's a pic of the 942 & 940

Grips By Master Stock Maker Craig Spegel