classic series K frame revolvers

[Thom_44]

Does the removal of the flat spot on the bottom of the forcing cone, and the extra bit of metal in the frame to include the safety lock, create any actual increase in strength of the firearm?

[stansdds]

The removal of the flat spot on the barrel shank does improve barrel durability, presumably the full circumference shank improves the hoop strength which can reduce the potential for a crack to form. As for the frame, I think the frame's top strap is a little bit thicker than the original K-frame. Not enough to affect holster fit, but enough to improve durability with full power 357 Magnum ammo.

Is the Classic K-frame 357 now as strong as the L-frame? Great question and if someone will donate to me a new Classic K-frame and a new L-frame, a Ransom rest, and a supply of full power 357 Magnum ammo sufficient to test each revolver to the point of failure, I'll perform the test.

[jamesallen]

Originally Posted by stansdds

Is the Classic K-frame 357 now as strong as the L-frame? Great question and if someone will donate to me a new Classic K-frame and a new L-frame, a Ransom rest, and a supply of full power 357 Magnum ammo sufficient to test each revolver to the point of failure, I'll perform the test.

I had the two guns and the ammo all ready to send to you, but then I came across this video, a review of the Classic Model 19, where Jerry Miculek says you can shoot .357 in a Classic Model 19 "till the cows come home." 2:36
Full explanation starts at about 2:00
When the cows do come home, I guess you can no longer shoot .357? It's probably too loud for them..

YouTube

[stansdds]

Originally Posted by jamesallen

I had the two guns and the ammo all ready to send to you, but then I came across this video, a review of the Classic Model 19, where Jerry Miculek says you can shoot .357 in a Classic Model 19 "till the cows come home." 2:36
Full explanation starts at about 2:00
When the cows do come home, I guess you can no longer shoot .357? It's probably too loud for them..
Smith & Wesson Model 19 .357 Magnum Complete Review - YouTube

Dang it, Jerry! Guess I won't be doing any torture tests as his assessment is correct.

[snowman.45]

During my career, I carried a lot of Model 19s and 66s in 6", 4" and 2.5" barrels; uniformed and plain clothes, on duty and off duty. At first I was skeptical when the 10 Carry Comp and 686 L Comp first appeared. I wasn't certain that the comped barrel was much more than a gimmick. Further, I wasn't too sure of the two piece barrel, and damed sure didn't like the frame-mounted lock. I figured I had to give them a shot, all the same. I have both and have to say I'm expremely impressed with both. While the lock is still present, I have been removing them and plugging the hole with the various plugs available. I'll end up doing the same with these.

I can say that they work well enough that I use the 19 Carry Comp every year for the revolver qualification for my LEOSA certification. While it has taken a while to get used to idea of these mechanical modifications, I'm quite happy with both guns, and would not and have not) hesitate to buy S&W more revolvers.

[stansdds]

The barrel and shroud system was pioneered by Dan Wesson. Dan Wesson revolvers, even though the double action trigger is heavy, gained a reputation as being as accurate as the highly regarded Colt Python. The accuracy is due to the barrel-shroud-lock nut system, which tensions the barrel and reduces the harmonic vibration inherent with barrels that are torqued into the frame. At least that is the theory. It's an ingenious system and I guess the patent has expired as S&W and Ruger are now using similar barrel systems in some of their revolvers.

[Thom_44]

Originally Posted by stansdds

The barrel and shroud system was pioneered by Dan Wesson. Dan Wesson revolvers, even though the double action trigger is heavy, gained a reputation as being as accurate as the highly regarded Colt Python. The accuracy is due to the barrel-shroud-lock nut system, which tensions the barrel and reduces the harmonic vibration inherent with barrels that are torqued into the frame. At least that is the theory. It's an ingenious system and I guess the patent has expired as S&W and Ruger are now using similar barrel systems in some of their revolvers.

But some people on another forum are claiming that smith and wesson has stopped using the multi piece barrel system for many models.

[ISCS Yoda]

Originally Posted by Thom_44

But some people on another forum are claiming that smith and wesson has stopped using the multi piece barrel system for many models.

Well, someone needs to figure that out!!!!