Is a Model 15 frame strong enough for a .327 Fed. Mag. conversion?

[cgt4570]

I've got a late pre-15 frame, a spare K-32 barrel, and a K-22 cylinder I'm considering using to put together a K frame .327 Federal Magnum with. There should be plenty of wall thickness in the cylinder if re-bored to .32. My only concern is the frame. I would end up with a K-32 shooter with recessed cylinder that would handle .32s, .32 Mags, and .327s. Comments?

 

[cgt4570]

I've got a late pre-15 frame, a spare K-32 barrel, and a K-22 cylinder I'm considering using to put together a K frame .327 Federal Magnum with. There should be plenty of wall thickness in the cylinder if re-bored to .32. My only concern is the frame. I would end up with a K-32 shooter with recessed cylinder that would handle .32s, .32 Mags, and .327s. Comments?

 

[JohnK]

I'd be concerned if the K-22 cylinder having the proper heat treatment, and steel, to handle the very high pressure .32 Mag.

 

[H Richard]

I would do it in something that was already at least a .357.

 

[WR Moore]

IIRC, Smith doesn't recommend using .38 +P in guns before model numbers. I don't recall the pressure figures of the .327, but I'll bet it's higher than the 20,000 CUP of the .38 +P. That being the case, the conversion isn't a real good idea.

The point about the .22 lr cylinder is also a good one. Hey, it's YOUR head & hand though.

 

[JohnK]

I believe the max pressure level is 45,000 psi.

Ouch !

 

[robertrwalsh]

Were it me, I would be a wee bit uneasy about it.

 

[rundownfid]

As people above have said that is a lot of pressure, however I for one would love to see a k-frame .327. Why don't you contact Hamilton Bowden or one of the other established experts in caliber conversions and get an opinion.
I am no expert, but with the right frame and cylinder (and the smith might have to make one) why wouldn't this work, the cartridge is no longer than the .357 and the K-frame will handle longer rounds than the N-frame. Also, the "problem" on Ks is the forcing cone and the somewhat smaller bullet will strengthen that area. Sounds like a great idea and a fine gun.

 

[Timber251]

I'm gathering part to convert a Md 15 to 32 also, but started with a 32 mag cylinder, I wondered if the heat treatment would allow me to lengthen the chamber to .327 Fed Mag.?

 

[Double-O-Dave]

This has been discussed before - I wrote Hamilton Bowen to ask if my 432 in .32H&R Magnum could be converted to .327Federal Magnum. Mr. Bowen indicated that it would be no problem for a K frame conversion, but not for a J frame due to thin wall thickness. I believe Bowen said that on a K frame conversion, the price would be approx. $100.00.

Best of luck,

Dave

 

[Timber251]

Thanks for the information Double-O-Dave, could you post/email some contact info for Mr. Bowen?
Thanks again,
Timber

 

[Double-O-Dave]

Originally posted by Timber251:
Thanks for the information Double-O-Dave, could you post/email some contact info for Mr. Bowen?
Thanks again,
Timber

Here you go:

http://www.bowenclassicarms.com/default.htm

I think you will be impressed with him. He is very professional and polite.

Best of luck,

Dave