Model 21-4 Question

[flyandscuba]

I recently picked up a Model 21-4 Thunder Ranch revolver that appears NIB, although it was sold as being used. It came with everything, including the wooden presentation box with the etched glass lid displaying the Thunder Ranch logo. I know that these were produced primarily for collectors -- but I don't think the collector value is that significant at this point, and that isn't why I bought it. I liked it because it was a big bore N-frame revolver with the more vintage lines, fixed sights, tapered barrel, etc.. It points extremely well for me, although I would replace the Ahrends grips with a Hogue monogrip if I was going to carry and/or shoot it.

Here's my question... 44 Special is OK, but I would prefer having the flexibility of chambering 44 Magnum if I was going to carry it in the field. Is it possible to get an N-frame cylinder chambered in 44 Magnum (29, 629, 329, etc) and simply replace the stock cylinder, or are there specifics associated with the Model 21 that would prevent such a modification? I know a more permanent option would be to have the chambers reamed to 44 Magnum specs - but that would cost as much if not more than a replacement cylinder. Should I just get some hot "Keith load" 44 Special ammo and just live with it? Or, am I foolish for even thinking of the other options -- and is this best left unfired and in the display case as a novelty?

Thanks for the input!

 

[Muley Gil]

I know of one person who has done this. The magnum cylinder would have to be fitted to the revolver.

The factory will not condone this conversion, probably stating that there is a different (read weaker) heat treatment of the M21-4.

Personally, I'd get a .44 Magnum Mountain Gun and leave the M21 alone.

 

[Nick B]

Do as I did with mine, change the grips for better fitting Ahrends and take it out and shoot it . There is no collector value in these . They've actually gone down in value in the last year or so .
Shoot it and enjoy it .

 

[flyandscuba]

I'm thinking the best thing to do is to get some of the 255gr Keith loads from Buffalo Bore -- they should be adequate -- I just wish they weren't so expensive. Or, I might try to talk Mike at swampfox ammo into loading up some hot 44 Special loads for me -- I have plenty of once-fired brass that I could send him.

 

[bronco45]

250 gr Keith at 950-1000fps is all you need and your 21-4 will shoot that load for decades to come.

44Specials shine with reloads. Great cartridge, very versatile, accurate and powerful.

 

[flyandscuba]

It is a quite attractive revolver -- I like it!

 

[TAROMAN]

Can that gold logo thing be removed? If it was mine, I'd at least paint it black. Ever the contrarian, I just don't care for gold trim on my guns.

 

[flyandscuba]

Can that gold logo thing be removed?

I don't think so -- it appears that the sideplate is either etched or relieved to accept the logo.

 

[Nick B]

I don't think so -- it appears that the sideplate is either etched or relieved to accept the logo.

Yea and S&W quoted me 300 bucks to replace it with a non logo sideplate .

 

[BUFF]

"I'm thinking the best thing to do is to get some of the 255gr Keith loads from Buffalo Bore -- they should be adequate -- I just wish they weren't so expensive."

That would be a good way to go. While it may be a lot easier to find, factory .44 Magnum ammunition is costly, too. And full power Magnum ammo in that light revolver with the skinny grips may get a little tiring.

For about $300, or less if you found good used gear, you could get set up to handload your own ammo. Unless one has a very generous ammo budget, handloading is the only way most of us can acquire and shoot enough ammunition to develop and maintain competency with a handgun.

 

[thomasinaz]

These are very nice guns, and I've shot mine a bunch. Keep it as is and start reloading with the $ a conversion would cost. There isn't much a heavy loaded 44 spl won't handle, and your reloaded rounds can be made to whatever level you want (witin the limits of safety). Congratulations on your new gun.