I want to get a SW revolver built for PPC use and have begun my search for a Model 64/67 since the builder I was planning on using...uses stainless barrels.
he told me what to look for in finding a suitable gun for a build other than the obvious seen by the eye.
*see if a range svc rod drops in all 6 cylinder holes (range rod OTW!)
*and make sure the center pin hole in the frame is not egg shaped.
there are two Model 64s at a local gun smith.....one is super clean....likely hardly shot in the box and the other is rougher and with a big price difference.
of course the rougher 64 does show some egg shaping to the center pin hole. this egg shaping got me to wondering.
I bought me an older 1980s built Model 14 PPC gun as my starter gun. I cannot begin to guess how many cylinder opening and closing this gun has had....but there is no egg shaping to the center pin hole in the frame. also, I have seen cylinder stop notches in both well worn cylinders in both carbon and stainless steel guns. stainless always seem to be peened over developing an edge.
I live in south Texas (high humidty and hot temps, always sweaty at matches) and I thought the stainless guns will be more friendly toward my environment.
Obviously carbon steel holds up better than stainless when it comes to gun frames and the opening and closing of cylinders or stop notches....
so I am looking for the wrong gun in the area of longevity?
I did not want a Pinto but if a carbon steel Model 14/15 will hold up better for the next 20+ years (hehehehe) should I go that route and either deal with a Pinto or find me a builder who uses carbon PPC barrels?
your opinions are welcomed.