342 - Jacketed Bullets Only?

[quickdraw03]

I just got a 342. It did not include the manual. The barrel is stamped "38 Spcl +P / Jacketed Only".

In guessing the concern is that heavy recoiling lead loads might be more likely to jump crimp than similar jacketed loads.

Could I run light lead loads in this gun safely? (148 wadcutters?)

Thanks,
QD

 

[cal50]

I just got a 342. It did not include the manual. The barrel is stamped "38 Spcl +P / Jacketed Only".

In guessing the concern is that heavy recoiling lead loads might be more likely to jump crimp than similar jacketed loads.

Could I run light lead loads in this gun safely? (148 wadcutters?)

Thanks,
QD

"Jacketed only" is usually associated with a cleaner firing load. Desert Eagle pistols and the HK P7 are gas operated (HK Gas assist) hence the jacketed ammo only for keeping the gas system clean. In a wheel gun its not a common notation but it could be bullet retention, tighter fitting cylinder clearance , etc.

I am curious to know as well.

 

[OKFC05]

The S&W revolver manual is available online, and they will send you a free paper copy.
On page 12:

Before placing any of these reduced weight revolvers into
service, perform the following test to determine the suitability
of the ammunition you intend to use.
At a gun range or other suitable and safe location, prepare your
revolver for firing by fully loading its cylinder with the ammunition
to be tested. While pointing the firearm in a safe direction, fire all
but the last round. Remove the empty casings and the last
loaded round from the revolver's cylinder.
Carefully inspect the loaded round to determine if its bullet has
started to unseat (move forward) from its casing.(Figure 2) If it​

has, you should not use the tested ammunition in your revolver.

http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore/SmWesson2/upload/other/S&W_Revolver_Manual_01-30-2011.pdf

 

[cal50]

That explains it.

Lighter weight revolver = higher G force during recoil so bullets have a greater chance of sliding forward during recoil.

 

[kaaskop49]

I have had success with my 342 using Federal 125 gr loads, the standard JHPs, not the fancier grades. No pull-out with them and the gun controls easily.

 

[civil1977]

The 342 is a great concealed carry gun and I carried mine for several hours around town today. In addition to the reason stated in the manual, cleaning lead fouling out of that titanium cylinder could be tough and you run the risk of damaging the coating. I stick to jacketed bullets in mine.