Convert .38 Spcl Centennial to .357 Mag?

[perpster]

I am wondering if the following models can be converted from .38 Special to .357 Magnum, and if so what steps and costs are involved. Thanks.

M640 (non magnum frame. I know this probably answers part of my question)

M640-2 (magnum frame).

 

[perpster]

I am wondering if the following models can be converted from .38 Special to .357 Magnum, and if so what steps and costs are involved. Thanks.

M640 (non magnum frame. I know this probably answers part of my question)

M640-2 (magnum frame).

 

[perpster]

Let me clarify. Is it just a matter of swapping in a .357 cylinder on the 640-2? Thanks in advance for your answer to my newbie-ish question.

 

[Pisgah]

It can probably be done. But, I would suggest a 2-step process to achieve you ends:

1. Sell the .38.
2. Buy a .357.

Probably cheaper, and no question the "conversion" will work.

 

[robotoid]

640-2 is somewhat rare, someone may want it. I'd suggest selling one or both and buying the 640-1. To buy a cylinder to convert it you'd just end up with alot of money in a bastardized gun you'd probably never be able to recoup. The standard 640 has the shorter frame and magnum length cylinder would not fit. Personally, I have a 640-1 but never carry it with full magnums, only 38+p's. I also have a 640 ND and the weight difference is negligible, less than an ounce.

 

[perpster]

Originally posted by robotoid:
640-2 is somewhat rare, someone may want it. I'd suggest selling one or both and buying the 640-1. To buy a cylinder to convert it you'd just end up with alot of money in a bastardized gun you'd probably never be able to recoup. The standard 640 has the shorter frame and magnum length cylinder would not fit. Personally, I have a 640-1 but never carry it with full magnums, only 38+p's. I also have a 640 ND and the weight difference is negligible, less than an ounce.

I didn't realize the 640-2 is somewhat rare. What is a 640 "ND"? Thanks.

 

[perpster]

Just after hitting "post now" I realized that must be the new 640 Night Defender model, correct?

 

[robotoid]

ND=no dash
I believe the 640-2 was made to meet NYPD specs for off duty carry; i.e., no 357 magnums, only 38's.

 

[perpster]

Originally posted by robotoid:
ND=no dash
I believe the 640-2 was made to meet NYPD specs for off duty carry; i.e., no 357 magnums, only 38's.

You are correct, but I was wondering since it's on the stretched magnum J frame maybe all it would take is a cylinder swap to convert to .357 magnum.

 

[Andy Taylor]

Originally posted by perpster:

Originally posted by robotoid:
ND=no dash
I believe the 640-2 was made to meet NYPD specs for off duty carry; i.e., no 357 magnums, only 38's.

You are correct, but I was wondering since it's on the stretched magnum J frame maybe all it would take is a cylinder swap to convert to .357 magnum.

I believe that you are correct, however you would destroy a collectable firearm to do it. Sell the .38(s) and buy a magnum.
Cheaper, easier, safer.

 

[perpster]

Originally posted by Lucky Derby:

Originally posted by perpster:

Originally posted by robotoid:
ND=no dash
I believe the 640-2 was made to meet NYPD specs for off duty carry; i.e., no 357 magnums, only 38's.

You are correct, but I was wondering since it's on the stretched magnum J frame maybe all it would take is a cylinder swap to convert to .357 magnum.

I believe that you are correct, however you would destroy a collectable firearm to do it. Sell the .38(s) and buy a magnum.
Cheaper, easier, safer.

I hear ya.