Experience using Bowan Classic Arms?

[jepp2]

I have a 629-3 that needs the throats enlarged. One option is to use BCA (Bowen Classic Arms) to enlarge the throats on a S&W SS cylinder. Anyone have any throats done by BCA on their SS S&W?

I have used a reamer to cut the throats on my Ruger Blackhawks with good success, but don't know how well the SS would cut.

 

[tomcatt51]

but don't know how well the SS would cut.

It cuts just fine. If you cut the throats in your Rugers you can do the S&W. Just get the reamer.

 

[Boxhead]

Some years ago I sent Hamilton a Ruger cylinder. He uses a hone and the work was perfectly and promptly executed. I also have a couple of full blown custom Ruger's he built. He has his reputation for good reason.

 

[K&Nframe]

He does beautiful work, but plan on not seeing your gun for a very long time. I called to get some work done and was told it would be at least a year.

Kevin

 

[trulyapostolic]

Bowen did my 629 cylinder last year. Came out just fine.

 

[Boxhead]

He turns cylinder throat jobs around in a week or two and only send the cylinder, not the entire gun. Major custom work is another story as it is with all of the top revolversmiths.

 

[Twogunnes]

My experience with Bowen is ongoing, as he still has my revolver for conversion. So far communication has been great.

Years ago had dealings with Magnaport. They were more than pathetic!!! I would simply throw the project away, before they would do work for me ago!!!

Twogunnes

 

[williamlayton]

I will vouch for him.
Blessings

 

[jepp2]

I very much appreciate all the responses. They have all been helpful in my forming my decision. Right now I'm on the fence on buying the Manson reamer and doing it myself, or sending it to BCA to do the work. For just 1 cylinder, the costs are close.

The comments about the SS cutting the same as blued cylinders gives me confidence in doing it myself.

 

[11e40]

jepp2, if you can do a blued cylinder you can do a s/s cylinder. hth.

 

[David LaPell]

He did a blackpowder chamfer on a cylinder for my 624 once. Absolutely flawless work.

 

[Beruisis]

none better.
Beruisis

 

[Erich]

I love what he did for me: made a humdrum gun into an heirloom - but it wasn't fast.