All S&W Mod 60 OK for +P 38 spl?

[JStacy]

Early Mod 60 ,38 Spl is not marked for +P 38 spl loads. Are they not rated for +P or only ones so marked rated for +P ammo ?

 

[bmcgilvray]

I'm willing to shoot and carry 158 grain +P in any Model 60 I might acquire without hesitation.

The Model 60 is rated for .38 Special. That's all the rating I'm interested in.

 

[murphydog]

I think it is more of an "accelerated wear" than "catastrophic failure" question with a model 60, even an early one, and + P. The factory will tell you not to use it in any version before the -7 but limited use will not harm it.

 

[sigp220.45]

I used to qualify quarterly with a Model 36 and +P+ Hydra Shoks. Other guys used their Model 60s. No problems at all.

Its just not that hot.

 

[MetalMan]

My understanding is that all "Model Number"-stamped J's are safe for "occasional" use with +P rather than a steady diet.

 

[stansdds]

S&W steel J and K frame 38's stamped with a model number are safe for 38 Special +P, that's per Smith & Wesson. I would think they would know when it comes to such things. Will +P blow up a 38 Special that is in good condition? No. Will it accelerate wear? Yes, and with older revolvers that used a "softer" steel or lacked heat treatment, the accelerated wear will happen faster.

 

[murphydog]

This question comes up frequently, and each time I promise myself I will save the link to the factory recommendations. Well, I did it this time - post #24.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/ammo/473116-p-loads-j-frame.html?highlight=factory+table

Note the full-lug model 60-4 is "approved" for + P. But my opinion above remains.

 

[JStacy]

Murph, Excellent info. Thanks Jim

 

[Dennis2149]

Probably not necessary to state but I would definitely not use +P ammo in a J-Frame Model 37.

 

[Targets Guy]

I use whatever the manual says to use. I only poke holes in paper so wadcutters work for me.

 

[all5x]

The US Secret Service used Model 60's as standard backup to the Model 19's. They used the +P+ rounds in them and did regular inspections for wear and damage. When they qualified with the Model 19 they also did quals with the Model 60. At least 15 rounds on each qual.