110 gr. 357 in a 19-3 OK?

[GOLDOT]

I wouldn’t shoot .110 grain magnum loads in an older model 19.

The problem with 110 grain bullets in a .357 Magnum isn’t the weight, it’s their corresponding length. These short bullets exit the case mouth sooner than longer ones and accelerate flame cutting, because the pressure/temperature is still near peak. That’s why the newer Airlite .357 revolvers are stamped with a warning about minimum bullet weight (125 Gr).

Model 19’s were not intended for shooting a lot of magnum loads. The bottom back of the barrel/forcing cone is quite thin and cracking is a known issue. S&W doesn’t have any replacement barrels, so I wouldn’t recommend pushing your luck.

Dear, with the high power 38SPL+P loads, being the cartridge shorter, doesn't the same problem occur?

 

[s&wchad]

Dear, with the high power 38SPL+P loads, being the cartridge shorter, doesn't the same problem occur?

No, there’s a big difference between the two cartridges.

According to SAAMI spec’s, pressure for .38 Special +P is 18,500 PSI. .357 Magnum is 35,000 PSI. This is the best reference I could find,

Max Chamber Pressure - SAAMI Specs

 

[GOLDOT]

No, there’s a big difference between the two cartridges.

According to SAAMI spec’s, pressure for .38 Special +P is 18,500 PSI. .357 Magnum is 35,000 PSI. This is the best reference I could find,

Max Chamber Pressure - SAAMI Specs

It would then be understood that, since the pressure is much lower, the gas escape is also much lower, therefore it is not so harmful.

 

[stansdds]

38 Special with light weight bullets does not present the same issue as 357 Magnum full power loads and light weight bullets. 38 Special simply cannot make use of the slow burning ball powder that is used in the 357 Magnum loads. The same goes for the reduced power/short barrel 357 Magnum ammo.

 

[S.B.]

You failed to say if the loads were factory or handloads?
Steve