K-38 to K32 Masterpiece conversion?

[zywina]

I am looking to convert one of my older K-38's to a K-32, wondering if there is a source for cylinder and barrels? If so what era parts fit what era K38 or Model 14's? Any help would be very helpful Dale Z!! pS will be my 13 year old nephews first bullseye gun

 

[Cricker]

You might try Numrich Arms. www.gunpartscorp.com They have tons of parts for many guns.

 

[DCWilson]

Dale, I doubt the parts you want can be found. It might be easier to get a gunsmith to sleeve your K-38 barrel and cylinder to produce a virtual K-32.

But in case lightning srikes: In 1977 the cylinder/yoke package was redesigned to handle the gas ring differently. As the original K-32 went out of production in 1974, it is possible any K-frame .32 cylinder you find from before that date would function in your old Masterpiece frame. But I don't know that for a fact; I'm just guessing based on limited knowledge.

The ejector rod thread was changed in 1961, so if you could luck into a post-'61 .32 cylinder, you would have to get a new ejector rod as well.

The 16-4 cylinder chambers .32 H&R Magnum, so if you come across a loose cylinder and can't identify it from other features, test it with the longer round to know if it as an appropriate transplant candidate.

 

[glenncal1]

Dale-I think in the long run it might be easier and cheaper to buy a shooter grade k-32 than to do the conversion. IMHO

 

[H Richard]

I would think locating the parts would be a very difficult search. I think Dave offered the easiest solution by sleeving the barrel and cylinder chambers. While not cheap, would be less than even a shooter grade 16.

 

[long colt frazier]

Dale my local gun store had a model 16 cylinder a few months ago. It was in great condition. You can PM me for the contact info. I will be going by there this afternoon and will check if it is still there.
Mark

 

[rburg]

Or look for a K22 barrel and cylinder to have rebored.

 

[TSQUARED]

It would be easier to rebore a K-22 cylinder and barrel. Personaly I think you will spend more money than you would by purchasing a S&W 16-4 in 32 H&R which shoots very well with light loads.

 

[larryofcc]

Dale, what are you thinking??? Your buddy, Big Larry

 

[Green Frog]

I asked a similar question, and was pointed toward Hamilton Bowen as a source for the "blank" cylinder to bore to .32 and even for the whole conversion.

Froggie

 

[zywina]

Guy thanks for all the neat info, on how to go about this in many differrent ways, reall appreciate it! cheers Dale Z!