What is the real purpose of Unfluted Cylinders? I really like the way they look, but was the purpose to start using them on certain models for cosmetics or do they offer any added strength? Obviously they would have to be stronger than a fluted cylinder but is it enough to make any difference?
Purpose of Unfluted Cylinders?
- Thread starter Eddietruett
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ParadiseRoad
Member
...added strength...and added weight on heavy recoiling revolvers...
...the five shot ones put the cylinder locking notches between cylinders instead of over them...
...the five shot ones put the cylinder locking notches between cylinders instead of over them...
Cal44
Member
A little stronger, but I don't think it makes much difference.
Just mainly for looks.
Just mainly for looks.
Creates another class of collectibles and I bought the idea -- 7 times. Significant less recoil with a 3"' 44 magnum and magnum loads.
I'm not an expert but I really don't think any added strength is all that much. Things that come to mind is looks and maybe a little cost savings.
Wee Hooker
Member
....to get me to buy more guns? I like them too!
ridgewalker
Member
I find that the unfluted cylinder's added mass stabilizes the revolver during my DA shooting aiding accuracy.
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I would title this "the purpose of fluted cylinders 
". I have read it was to be able to turn the cylinder by hand with heavy fouling from shooting, as with black powder.
And the only significance of unfluted ones (besides looking cool) is S & W had to modify the lockwork of certain guns due to the increased rotational forces. This is why there are very few model 627s and relatively more 627-0s.
". I have read it was to be able to turn the cylinder by hand with heavy fouling from shooting, as with black powder.And the only significance of unfluted ones (besides looking cool) is S & W had to modify the lockwork of certain guns due to the increased rotational forces. This is why there are very few model 627s and relatively more 627-0s.
I like unfluted cylinders but they're just for looks.
I replaced my 629-6's fluted cylinder with an unfluted cylinder. The gun's weight changed from 44.3oz. to 44.8oz.
The flutes are between the chambers, on the outside of the cylinder, where the metal is already typically the thickest. Unfluted cylinders only make the thickest part thicker.
The thinnest part of a revolver is at the cylinder's stop notch when it's inline with the chamber (unless it's a variation that has them between the chambers). Unfluted cylinders, of the same style, do nothing to change that.
They are just for looks.
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I replaced my 629-6's fluted cylinder with an unfluted cylinder. The gun's weight changed from 44.3oz. to 44.8oz.
The flutes are between the chambers, on the outside of the cylinder, where the metal is already typically the thickest. Unfluted cylinders only make the thickest part thicker.
The thinnest part of a revolver is at the cylinder's stop notch when it's inline with the chamber (unless it's a variation that has them between the chambers). Unfluted cylinders, of the same style, do nothing to change that.
They are just for looks.
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Mehutch
Member
Like 3S16 said, "Because they are cool!" And I would like one more.
and my old Ruger 3 screw
and my old Ruger 3 screw
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On the right gun....
On the right gun they look cool as hell.
On the right gun they look cool as hell.
Ribwizzard
Member
I'm sorry, but I think they make the revolver look unfinished and cheap, like a Ruger.
loeman
Member
To me, unfluted cylinders don't look cheap or unfinished, but they sure don't conform to my vision of the classic S&W "look". I used to have a Md 657 Classic Hunter, but I never cared that much for it so I found it a new home. We all have our vision of what is cool or what is not.
I agree. And often it can be pushed as a "special" or "limited edition".
Oh, good. I thought I was the only person who thought that.
Nope, unless maybe on early colt's (army/navy models), etc without top strap.
IMO, they (non-fluted) serve no purpose... at least from user standpoint and distract from looks.
NO ADDED strength. The thickness of the outside of the charge holes and the bolt cut depth remains the same. Really equals less machine work for the completed product.
