I've owned and used S&W handguns since the very early 70's and have always wondered how S&W came to settle on the 8 3/8 inch barrel length. Why not just 8 inches? Why not 8 1/4 or 8 1/2. I don't get it. Anyone know the answer? Thanks for any help gents.

A certain type of revolver target competition (I don't recall which) mandated a sight radius of no more than 10", and 8 3/8" was the barrel length that got them to that figure.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

Hello Woodtick
Welcome to the forum and a great question. S&W used to offer target revolver's with an 8-3/4" Barrel length. The reason we see the shorter 8-3/8" barrel lenghts now on Post-War Target guns is a rule set for competition shooting said that a guns "total sight plane" could not exceed 10" In length so if you measure from the end of the barrel to the rear sight you will see that it is 10" In total sight plane length so that is why S&W ceased making their Target guns barrels in the 8-3/4" Barrel lengths, as they exceeded the competition bullseye shooting rules. Regards, Hammerdown

Anyone here ever shoot Bullseye with an 8-3/8" barrel? I've never seen it done or known anyone who claimed to have done it. One handed that's a lot of weight to hold steady.

Dave

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RSVN '69-'71
PCSD (Ret)