I really don't know the answer to this.

[mnshutterbug]

I've been reading a lot about J frames and now I just read a post about N frames. All I know is that they are types of revolvers. What is the difference and how many other * frames are out there?

 

[gunnails]

These are S&W current frame size choices.

 

[mnshutterbug]

That's it? It just refers to the size? How silly to designate a letter to each size. Thanks. That's a prefect visual explanation.

 

[richardw]

Gunnails, great explanation with so few words.

 

[lhump1961]

I am not the expert but the frame sizes are from smallest to largest...J,K,L,N,X.

I have to admit I have only K's and L's because they are actually the same in regards to grip to frame size with the L frame being more robust in the cylinder, top strap and forcing cone area...perhaps barrel as well. The K frame was made to be lighter and easier to carry (it is) but isn't going to stand up to a lifetime of hot mag loads as well as the L frame or particularly the N frame will when it comes to hot loads and lighter bullets like the 125g. Everything concerning all the different frame sizes is that they all achieve a certain goal and they all come with compromises to reach those goals. This is a good thing when it comes to choosing which one will fill the intended role the best.

As for my K and L frames I hand load so it's easy for me to load them in a manner to which they are best suited.

Others will come along with much more detailed information regarding frame sizes.

 

[rwsmith]

That's it?

Yeah, that's it.


Mystery solved. Now trying to decipher MODEL numbers......

 

[357-RevolverGuy]

That's it? It just refers to the size? How silly to designate a letter to each size. Thanks.

Lol, wait until you get into the model numbers and official names for S&W revolvers. For example the mod.640 J-frame is also known as The Centennial. And the model 686 L-frame is the Distinguished Combat Magnum. It's quite intriguing.

 

[lhump1961]

Here are a couple of pics of a model 66-1 (K frame) and a model 686 (L frame). Both .357 magnums. Notice the difference in the thickness of the cylinder and that while the grips are aligned the L frame is taller. My photography is lacking but you get the picture...no pun intended. (yes it was!)

The K frame is a better (easier) carry gun but the L frame is more robust. They feel the same in your hand outside of weight. Practice with the L and carry the K!

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Ah, picking nits here, but don't forget the M and I-frames. Nothing silly at all about identifying frame sizes with letters.

M: Turn of the last century. Lady Smith. .22 caliber. Smaller than the J so out of alphabetical sequence as far as size.

I: .32 frame (Hand Ejector and Regulation Police) from which we also got the .22/.32 Kit Gun and .38/.32 Terrier and Regulation Police.

 

[TNZ71]

Try this tutorial on Smith and Wesson Revolvers.

https://www.luckygunner.com/lounge/guide-sw-38-357-revolvers/

 

[hkcavalier]

Lol, wait until you get into the model numbers and official names for S&W revolvers. For example the mod.640 J-frame is also known as The Centennial. And the model 686 L-frame is the Distinguished Combat Magnum. It's quite intriguing.

Then there is the S&W Model 357...an alloy N frame .41 Magnum

 

[moralem]

Then there is the S&W Model 357...an alloy N frame .41 Magnum

We must not forget the X frame.......

 

[Alk8944]

That's it? It just refers to the size? How silly to designate a letter to each size. Thanks. That's a prefect visual explanation.

Silly??? S&W is not the only manufacturer to designate different frame sizes by a letter. How would you propose doing it that makes more sense?

 

[mnshutterbug]

Silly??? S&W is not the only manufacturer to designate different frame sizes by a letter. How would you propose doing it that makes more sense?

Micro, mini, small, medium, large, extra large, massive.

 

[silversnake]

That's it? It just refers to the size? How silly to designate a letter to each size. Thanks. That's a prefect visual explanation.

Another way to keep track is to count how many rounds of .38/.357 ammo can fit in the cylinder:

J - 5
K - 6
L - 7
N - 8

There's never been an X-frame .357 but I bet it would hold 10, so you can remember it like the Greek letter X

 

[mnshutterbug]

Another way to keep track is to count how many rounds of .38/.357 ammo can fit in the cylinder:

J - 5
K - 6
L - 7
N - 8

There's never been an X-frame .357 but I bet it would hold 10, so you can remember it like the Greek letter X

That's interesting. In that case, I owned a K frame decades ago. All I remember is it was a 38, held 6 shots, and I couldn't hit the barn side of a broad with it.

 

[RobertJ.]

Yeah, that's it.


Mystery solved. Now trying to decipher MODEL numbers......

That is funny! There's a list I've seen titled, "How to tell if you're a gun nut". One way to tell is if you understand S&W model numbers!

 

[lamb]

I've been reading a lot about J frames and now I just read a post about N frames. All I know is that they are types of revolvers. What is the difference and how many other * frames are out there?

Ha, I hope you like reading.

 

[Genetically Swiss]

K & L frames have always been, hands down, my favorites. I like the J-frame and N-frame also, but absolutely no love for the X-frame.

GS

 

[steelslaver]

How do you know your really a S&W nut?
you have an I,J,K,L,M.N, and X frame revolvers (plus a few top breaks)