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Old 04-06-2020, 04:25 PM
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Lewel Lewel is offline
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Default 32 conversion

I would like some help. I need the name of a GB gunsmith that can rechamber a 32 long to 32 h&t as well as one that can rechamber one from 32 h&r to 327 fm.

The guns are a s&w 31-1 & s md 16-4.

Thanks, Lewel
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Old 04-06-2020, 06:05 PM
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I’m not a gunsmith but I would guess that At least the latter conversion would be impossible because of the huge difference in pressure between the 32 HR and the 327 Fed.
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Old 04-07-2020, 11:39 AM
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There are two threads on this exact subject from the end of last month.
This is an simple conversion that can be done at home with a moderate amount of skill. You’ll need a finishing reamer, tap handle, cutting oil, and a padded vice.
You don’t need a master gunsmith, any competent gunsmith or machinists could do this for you.
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Old 04-07-2020, 12:28 PM
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I had my 327 conversion done "from the ground up" converting a Model 66 to 327 FM using rebored Model 617 parts. This work was done for me by Andy Horvath of LaGrange, OH. Several other folks here have had him do 327 conversions of one sort or another. What you describe is a routine job for him. I assume he would also do the Model 31-1 conversion from 32 S&W L to 32 H&R.

Be aware, the no dash or pre-number 32s are built on the I-frame and the cylinders are too short to take the H&R, and all of the small frame guns are small for the 327.

Froggie
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Old 04-07-2020, 02:00 PM
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Default 32 conversion

Thanks for the info. My mod 31-1 should go to 32h&r easily as will the mod 16-4 to 327fm.
I am not a handy guy. In fact I could mess up an iron bar.

I was hoping for a Forum member or a lesser known gunsmith who may have a shorter turnaround time.

Thanks, Lewel
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Old 04-09-2020, 12:09 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Lewel View Post
Thanks for the info. My mod 31-1 should go to 32h&r easily as will the mod 16-4 to 327fm.
I am not a handy guy. In fact I could mess up an iron bar.
Thanks, Lewel
Two great conversions! They not only "should go" but absolutely will go as Bastogne71 and Green Frog confirmed for you above!

And both can be done with a single reamer; the 327 Mag reamer.

Having done several of these, I truly think messing up an iron bar could be easier! And especially if you want them done without a long wait! Each gun would take about 20 minutes. Even if you double that because it's the first time, you're still only talking about 1 hr and 20 minutes. The longest wait time will be a couple of days to a week to rent or buy the reamer and handle.

If you want to reconsider doing it yourself, I can send you details on the procedure. Just say the word.
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Old 04-10-2020, 11:46 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Lewel View Post
Thanks for the info. My mod 31-1 should go to 32h&r easily as will the mod 16-4 to 327fm.
I am not a handy guy. In fact I could mess up an iron bar.

I was hoping for a Forum member or a lesser known gunsmith who may have a shorter turnaround time.

Thanks, Lewel
Around here the most descriptive phrases are, “That boy could break a ball bearing” and “That boy would break the horn off an anvil with a rubber hammer!”

These are only a couple of steps below my skill level.

Froggie
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Old 04-10-2020, 12:52 PM
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FWIW my old man used to say that I "could tear up a cannon ball with a rubber hammer" - but that wasn't a reflection on my mechanical ability as much it was a comment on how hard I was on stuff.
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Old 04-10-2020, 03:48 PM
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Thanks guys. You have not only accurately described me but a Forum member has offered is help.

Thanks again to all that contributed to this thread. Lewel
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Old 04-10-2020, 08:18 PM
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Found the info.
Thanks

Last edited by hardknocks; 04-10-2020 at 10:18 PM.
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Old 04-10-2020, 08:31 PM
SuperMan SuperMan is offline
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Andy Hovath

Hamilton Bowen

Jack Huntington

One of the guys over on the 24HrCF just sent his 16 to Hovath for an action job and rechamber. He also contacted Bowen and was told $80 for just the rechamber.

I've had work done by Jack Huntington (JRH Advanced Gunsmithing) who converted a 53 to .327 Federal. I have a 4" 16 that is about to get rechambered...

Bob
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