I went through the FBINA in 1981. Vanderpool was one of the range instructors. Very good guy (as they all were). Range time was pure fun, and a nice break from the rigorous academic environment.
One of the pre-shooting lectures we had to attend was on how to clean a revolver. This was put on by the FBI armorers. Since we were just practicing what we already knew how to do, there was plenty of time for various discussions, which were very interesting. This was a period when S&W was infamous for the low quality of the revolvers being shipped. The armorers had to completely strip down each new revolver, and do the fitting and finishing work to make them reliable, before they went into the field. This led the FBI to propose to S&W to purchase all the parts for the revolvers and allow the FBI armorers to do all the assembly, at of course a reduced cost. S&W were having none of that so the idea ended there.
I have been told that field agents were strictly prohibited from tearing down their revolvers beyond removal of the yoke and cylinder for cleaning. If the armorers determined that the side plate had been removed by a field agent, there were serious consequences. It was better to comply and stay off the radar.
As to the .357 K frame size short barrel concept I agreed (and agree). For a time I carried a 2 1/2" S&W 66. Despite our department's problems with the 66s, I became convinced of the value of the concept. That led me to purchase my 2 3/4" Ruger Security Six.
I have long since drank the compact Glock kool-aid (model 26) but I still have that Security Six. If I want .357 horsepower to carry in our local mountains, that is my preference. The concept still applies.
