J Frame 38 VS J Frame 22

[roninsan]

Other than the obvious barrel / cylinder, what else is different between J Frames in 38 and 22?
Have always wanted a 34 or 63 but could never find one at a decent price, like less than the cost of say a Novak 1911.
Is it conceivable for one to convert a 36 to a 34? I know the issues with the 22s sometimes having issues with setting off 22 consistently, but I've seen that with Ruger single sixes too.
And I know that the cost can climb quickly when one gets into custom gunsmithing, but look at the price of a 34 lately?

Anyway, thanks for any input!

 

[murphydog]

A model 34 has a frame-mounted firing pin that strikes the rear of a cartridge at a different point than a centerfire revolver. I can't say I've ever seen a model 36 to 34 conversion.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

You would have to either change the barrel or sleeve the .357" diameter barrel. And of course like you said, you need to change the cylinder. I'm thinking you are correct, the custom work might not be economical but you will never know unless you ask a good gunsmith. Buying the M34 barrel will cost you at lease $120 and the cylinder probably will run you another $100. Don't forget all the pins and The extractor will cost at least $50 too. It may cost you $400 in parts alone.

I highly suggest you don't destroy a nice M36 and keep hunting for a M34. Hey, isn't the hunt half the fun?

 

[roninsan]

Yeah I didn't think it would be easy or cheap. But considering the prices I'm seeing I figured it would still be cheaper to do a conversion, if it was possible. My 36 is very nice, a little tricked out decades ago and still viable. I use a single six on the farm for general purposes, but would really like a 34 or a 63, but new ones are outrageously priced. Anyway thanks for the input!

 

[M29since14]

You can probably make about anything work if you're willing to spend the money. I agree with the suggestion to just keep looking. In the long run, I think you'll be best served by an original Model 34, even if it costs a bit more than something cheaply cobbled together.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

The S&W M43C is listed on the S&W site for $749 brand new. Its an Airlite that weighs only 11.5oz empty. That might be a viable choice. I see the current M63 has a List price of $840, that's a bit high too. The M43C holds 8 rounds which h is nice. Just a few thoughts...

 

[jjmIII_Ruger]

The S&W M43C is listed on the S&W site for $749 brand new.

Just picked mine up from the FFL yesterday for $670, but with all the fees, tax and transfer have $770 in it. Very nice gun though.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Just picked mine up from the FFL yesterday for $670, but with all the fees, tax and transfer have $770 in it. Very nice gun though.

Sorry to hear you habe to pay so much. Here we have a 6% sales tax and most FFL shops do not charge for the paperwork when they sell you a gun. Here it would be $710 OTD.

I knew the street price would be less, that's why I specified $749 was the list price.

 

[jjmIII_Ruger]

Sorry to hear you had to pay so much.

You and me both! I never have the option to buy locally unfortunately. Our big gun store is Fin Feather Fur. They are heavily stocked with plastic semi-autos, and AR's. The only revolvers are 460's and 500's that have been in the case forever.

I did find a very nice 34 for $730 and sent the OP a message. All the others are close to $1000-1200. Surprised the gun is still there this morning!

 

[Philbert4]

Yes, the 63s are pricey but you'll never be disappointed. Great guns, great feel, very accurate.

 

[roninsan]

You and me both! I never have the option to buy locally unfortunately. Our big gun store is Fin Feather Fur. They are heavily stocked with plastic semi-autos, and AR's. The only revolvers are 460's and 500's that have been in the case forever.

I did find a very nice 34 for $730 and sent the OP a message. All the others are close to $1000-1200. Surprised the gun is still there this morning!

Just saw that, thanks!!

 

[GerSan69]

It was kinda glossed over, but there is a big difference between firing pin locations on them. A different hammer is needed. A centerfire frame would also need a hole drilled cross-wise for the pin that holds in the firing pin and spring. And IIRC there is some sort of device in there that holds the firing pin on the rimfire.
A lot of work. Given the price of "basic" .38 J-frames these days, plus parts and a gunsmith knowledgeable enough to do the conversion, you probably would pay at least as much for your frankengun as you would for a J-22 revolver. Oh, and end up with a gun that's not worth as much, either.
Hey, I LOVE all things to do with modifications, but when it involves more money than it's worth, I have to say forget it, buy a "real" one.
Good luck on whatever you decide to do.

 

[Hondo44]

There is a way to convert the Mod 36 center fire to rim fire that's not only easier, but reversible.

Buy a spare Model 36 firing pin and bushing to modify.

Remove the firing pin bushing by tapping it forward thru the hammer channel and save it. Then drill a new firing pin hole in the spare bushing high enough for a rimfire pin to strike the .22 case head at 12:00 o'clock. Once you have the .22 cyl, you'll know the exact location.

Remove the hammer nose (the firing pin) by driving out the pin and save that firing pin. Insert new firing pin in the hammer and raise it in its slot to align with the newly drilled hole in the firing pin bushing. Drill new hole in the firing pin for re-installing the retaining pin. Remove excess material from the firing pin where it protrudes from the top of the hammer.

With the retained original parts you can always convert back to a .38 center fire.

 

[roninsan]

Good to know that info! Thanks!

 

[Tyree1867]

I love my 43C!