Are these current model alloy frames the same size as the steel .357 J frames? And are the .38 J cylinders the same length as the .357 cylinders?

thanks

Cylinders are same length in both caliber guns. I don't have any measuring instruments handy, but the .357 J-frame is slightly bulked up over that of my 637, especially at the point where the bbl enters the frame. Also, the top strap is thicker/higher. The bbl is longer in the Mag: 2.125" vs 1.875" on the 637 (and the other .38 cal. Js you cite. The Mag bbl is also thicker.

My eyes are not good enough to tell, but the crane/yoke may also be slightly more built up, but I may be incorrect. I was amazed to learn from reading SCSW, that altho the model 10 and Model 19 are both K-frames, the frame of the .357 K model is slightly longer. Best I can do.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

thank you--

Carrying this a bit further, I compared my 1992 60-7 to my 2014 642, and found that the reason my 60 was loose in my holster that fit my 642 great was that not only was the cylinder slightly longer in the newer gun but the frame was substantially thicker at the topstrap in both width and height above the cylinder.

So, you'll even find some holsters don't work the way they ought between "generational" differences.

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Yep. I'm THAT guy. ;)

Great post! I'm on my way out the door so I have to check that later for my own information. I can attest to the fact that the top strap on my early model fly-weight 360Sc is MUCH thicker than that of my other Js. Poster 'wesnellans' is absolutely correct on the holster-fit issue, one of the reasons I use the suede pouch IWB jobs.

Also, even though the guns we're describing are all RB-Js, there can be a grip-fit issue. The old Bianchi "Bodyguard-style" rubber grip will NOT fit on my 360: there are frame variations near the hammer that differ from .38 Js.

Thank you, wesnellans!

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

Can anyone tell me the cylinder width of a 442 or 642 revolver? When I retire, I plan to move from CA to AZ and will carry concealed. (Wish it was tomorrow!) I like the simple operation and classic reliability of a revolver for a tense situation, but I am wondering about the width of a wheel gun versus something like an M&P Shield. I am admittedly chubby, and would carry either in pocket holster or IWB, just front of the right pocket.

For Post #6, I measured the cylinder width of my 642 at ~1.306".

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