Hi guys -- I did a search on the forum and on the web, and was surprised not to find this answered because I know someone asked this question before. After going through multiple webpages, I thought I'd better just ask.
I'm a big fan of N frame revolvers. In 357 I have the Model 27 and 28. Great guns. - - - Well I also have a 686-5. Pre lock, 7 shot 357, 4" full lug barrel. I never carried it much after buying it, since I like the N frames so much and often carry one of those - particularly in 44 & 45 caliber chamberings. Well I strapped on the 686+ recently and thought "Wow, this feels nice. A lot lighter than the Model 27 or 28." This got me to wondering - - - how does the 357 N frame and L frame revolvers compare in terms of 'strength'. What level of loads can they each handle ? I'm actually thinking more in terms of defensive rounds, with maybe very occasional hunting use since I personally prefer bigger bore guns for that. Thanks in advance for your comments.

I doubt there is any real difference in "strength" between the L-N frames, either will handle all factory loadings with ease.

If it is chambered in .357 magnum it is designed to shoot .357 magnum rounds manufactured within SAAMI specifications.

If you are thinking of loading some up over SAAMI specs then you are on your own. All things being equal, which may or may not be the case, the larger frame pistol is likely the stronger of the two.

Thanks guys. It sounds like, (within the pressure and muzzle blast range that I prefer), that the N or L frame will work equally well for me. A 158gr GoldDot doing around 1200fps or so will work fine for my applications. I like the N frames, but it looks like I'll carry the 686 more often now. I appreciate your input. Best regards, - - -

I've always thought that the L frame was the same size as the N and the only difference was the part of the frame that was the grip. I really don't know if that is true. I suppose one could measure an L and N frame of the same cartridge to determine the thickness of the metal around the cylinder cut out though.
Len

__________________
Endeavor to persevere

Lenny,

The L-frame is closer to the K-frame than the N-frame. It is a beefed up K-frame in concept, intended to be strong enough to take a steady diet of Magnum ammunition. The generally held belief has always been that the K-frame Magnum (M-19 & M-66) was intended for practice with 38 Specials and sighting in and carry with 357 Magnums.

To the OP, technically your 7-shot L-frame is going to have thinner chamber walls than the N-frame M-27 & M-28, but that is probably balanced by the bolt cuts being off-set and between the chambers on the 7-shot. As others have said either L and N frames will take a steady diet of Magnums better than the K-frame.

Dave

__________________
RSVN '69-'71
PCSD (Ret)

Thanks for the explanation Dave.
Len

__________________
Endeavor to persevere

The N frame and cylinder are definately larger. My L holds 7 rounds, the N holds 8.

You might actually find, in comparing recoils, that the N-frame might seem to buck more because of its higher bore axis to the grip/your hand than the L frame.

Shoot them side by side with the same ammunition some day and see if you detect a difference in the upward bucking--this is assuming that the N and L are comparable weight and type of grips. The L has the added advantage of a heavier barrel to take up some of the recoil.

I'm a big fan of the L for steady .357 Magnum shooting with 4-inch or 6-inch barrels.

But my prize is a 3.5-inch Model 27.

Like you said an L frame has the strength without the weight of the N frame.

An L frame shooting magnums will outlast anyone reading this

In for further discussion.