2" to 3" jframe

Zoner

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i have a hankering for a 3" 38 Special j frame. I currently own a 640 no dash 38 special and a Model 60 no dash 38 both with 2" (snub) barrels. I am considering getting the Model 60 re-barreled. but there's a couple things i need to know. Planning on looking for a 3" used barrel...is the threaded barrel shank on a j frame barrel the same size/diameter as a k frame barrel( will either one work for my j frame), and how much should it cost to change barrels and adjust cylinder/forcing cone.....Mike
 
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You will need a J frame barrel. .500x36 for J frame, .540x36 for K frame. Plus, the extractor lug on the barrel would not line up. Also you will need another extractor rod assy as the 2" guns use a shorter one than the 3". No idea on labor cost. I do my own stuff with special tools.

I suspect you would be far better off to sell and buy what you want or just buy. Model 36s with 3" are around and not that badly pricedd. I have 2 as I am a fan of 3" barrels myself.
 
Before I spent money for another barrel installation and all that entails, I'd just go out and pick up a vintage 3-inch Model 36. They really aren't that hard to find. Plus, you'd have an original, not a Frankengun.
 
IMO if barrel length is the only issue, change guns. The fitment of a longer barrel combined with the longer extractor rod, spring, etc would come real close to the price of buying a gun with a longer barrel.
 
thanks for the info guys. I live in California and belong to a local forum(calguns.net). I posted for a trade and was contacted by a guy who has a 36-7 3" that is interested in a trade. Can anyone tell me about when the 36-7 was made and any other pros and cons about this model?I've pretty much shelved the barrel change idea......Mike
 
I made contact with the guy with the 3" 36-7......haha it was a 2" gun and i guess he thought it was a 3"
 
I'd not get rid of a great 2" J just to get a 3" J. ;)

I have an early 80's M36 nickeled 3" HB that's always been a great revolver.

I'd hold out for adding a " J to your collection.

Of course, this is from someone who has several J's, and wouldn't necessarily mind picking up another couple of them. ;)
 
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