I have a model 24-3 .44 special from the Lou Horton run of round butt snubbies. Does anyone know if model 24 cylinders and frames were heat treated the same as model 29's? I could ask the same question about the model 25 as well. Just wondering. I have no plans to push the limits on any of them.
Thanks,
Ray

Bumping and hoping for a reply.
Thanks,
Ray

I believe the rule of thumb is that if it has a model number stamped on the frame cut out, then the parts have been heat treated. Hopefully, someone who is more knowledgeable will be along soon to provide a complete answer.

From our friend Hondo44:

"Just another tidbit about S&W cyl heat treating:

• Heat treatment eliminated by order Oct. 12, 1945 for cylinders on the .22 & .32 ‘I’ frames, K22, 32 & 38, and the 44 & 45 N frames. It doesn't specifically include 38 N frames. May be cost cutting, improved metallurgy, or more probably, both. The .357 continued to have heat treatment and all subsequent magnum cartridge models."


Carter

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

Thanks Armorer
Let me state the reason for my question. My 24-3 has long cylinder throats and will chamber .44 mag cartridges. Let me be clear, I HAVE NO INTENTION OF DOING SO. I am just curious if these N frames are heat treated and pressure tested the same.

I know there was a recall for 3” 624s due to some being chambered at the factory for 44 mag without receiving proper heat treatment, but I’ve never heard about that with the 24-3. I wonder if a previous owner punched out the throats of your 24-3 to 44 mag. I have one of the original 3”
24-3s and it will not chamber a magnum.

Attached Images

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213th FBINA

I bought a 624 (no dash) years ago and learned afterward about the factory recall. Fortunately mine did not fall into the affected serial number range. If I were the OP, I would contact Smith & Wesson to ask if there ever had been a recall on my serial number. They take those seriously.