3" K Frame 64/65 Project gun

[Ed45]

Yes, crazy about those 3" K frames! A few years ago I purchased a couple 64-5's with RB frame and 4" barrels and bobbed hammers (guard guns as I recall). Both in decent shape. A couple months ago I got off my haunches and started a project gun; it was to be a 3" 64. First considered cutting the barrel; cosmetic suicide! Then after routinely browsing auction sites, I found a 3" barrel; HOWEVER it was a 65 barrel and hence marked for the 357 Magnum. Since this gun was going to be a shooter I would need to install a dovetailed Hi Viz front sight in order to give my old eyes a chance. Off to gunsmithing virtuoso, David Santurri. David is an artist with a milling machine and suggested we cut flats on each side of the 65 barrel to remove the marking problem. He installed the front sight, cut the flats and switched the barrels. He ended up selling the 4" for me coincidentally need by another customer. The barrel was re-marked by a laser engraving firm in Arlington, Virginia giving it a custom look.
Action-wise, I high polished the lock works and lubed dry with molybdenum disulfide; there is no oil in the gun. I was able to get a silky and very predictable let-off at 7lb. it is a pleasure to shoot. I can shoot touching or near touching groups at 8 yards off hand. I have posted several pictures. The grips are my Turkish walnut skillfully crafted by Kim Ahrends.

 

[dusty3030]

Outfrikinstanding!
I love it.

 

[Geronimo Jim]

I like it! How is point of aim with the higher front sight?
I have a Model 64 and a 65 both 3 inch that I would love
to have front sight replaced.

 

[GeoJelly]

Damn - I think you just saved me some money!! I also picked up a pretty nice 4-inch M64 last month. It's a 10-7 IIRC and has a round-butt. I really wanted a 3-incher but none were available reasonably. There is one 3-in M64 barrel on that infamous auction site - but they want over $200 for it.

I am impressed with yours - it looks great!!

Oops - I just checked his name and it looks like his shop is in Mass - I thought it was here in NoVA ... The whole FFL-shipment thing, along with costs involved, kinda kills it for me ...

 

[C Islander]

Looks great! I need to get a project gun.

 

[loeman]

Boy do I like that! You and your craftsmen are to be commended. I really like the flats with the laser engraving! If you told me what you are GOING to do I would say, "no don't do it". I'm glad you didn't talk to me before hand.

 

[damienph]

NICE!!! That should be an offering from the factory!

 

[GeoJelly]

Ed45 - would you mind saying who does the laser work in Arlington? I know a gentleman who's going to rechamber my .38 GP-100, and make similar flat-cuts on the barrel to yours. He can engrave the caliber markings but it's not cheap. He's going to bead-blast it while it's there so I think the laser etching would work fine on the barrel flats. Thanks!

 

[dozer]

Looking good!

 

[shell627]

Very nice.I would give that a double like if I could.

 

[jtcarm]

Dig that front sight! I need one on my 3"!

 

[Ed45]

Laser engraver is Phillip Le of Le's Engraving in Arlington; Le's Engravers. He does not have an FFL

 

[Goblin]

What did you do for the muzzle crown, and can you post a photo?

 

[Mike@NDS]

For you guys that can't trim your own barrels, give Ahlman's a call.

They have really good prices on this kind of job.

Handgun Work

 

[Goblin]

For you guys that can't trim your own barrels, give Ahlman's a call.

They have really good prices on this kind of job.

Handgun Work

I have a hacksaw.....do you think I'll need more than one blade? Those barrels are pretty thick.

 

[Ed45]

Hey Goblin. Muzzle crown was as from the factory on the 3" model 65 barrel; we didn't touch it.

 

[Jebus35745]

That's a really neat gun. What front sight was used. Was it round butted? I'd try to take it to the next BBQ if I were you, Larry

 

[helmsp]

Outstanding work and gave me some inspiration for my project gun, a 10-8 4".