Shooting a top break .38 S&W

[tgfang]

I may have an opportunity to buy a top break S&W revolver, said to be in excellent condition. I don't know what model it is. I would want to shoot it if I bought it. I realize that it is not .38 Special. Assuming good condition and prudent handloads, is it safe to shoot such a revolver? Would shooting it destroy collector value?

Tom

 

[tgfang]

I may have an opportunity to buy a top break S&W revolver, said to be in excellent condition. I don't know what model it is. I would want to shoot it if I bought it. I realize that it is not .38 Special. Assuming good condition and prudent handloads, is it safe to shoot such a revolver? Would shooting it destroy collector value?

Tom

 

[glypnir]

All of life's important questions are already answered somewhere on the mighty forum.

Especially ones like this. Try this thread.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/5401039...901009742#1901009742

 

[Jellybean]

And to answer Dot6s question, Hodgdon has cowboy loading data for many older calibers in both Pyrodex or Triple Seven and "smokeless" powders. These loads are lighter than standard pressure loads and are pleasant to shoot.

 

[tgfang]

Thank you for the replies.

I have found some a few other indications that some folks shoot them. One of my loading manuals says to not shoot them.

I found some load data on the 'net. If it is allowed and anyone is interested, I will post the link.

Tom

 

[Dosgatos]

Funny you should mention it: I just made a trip to the range to shoot my .38 DA Breaktop. The only ammunition I have been able to find is using a round-nosed lead bullet of 146 grains made by MagTech, and is fairly expensive at $20/box. The revolver is quite accurate, even with the difficult-to-use sights. It has small stocks and the trigger guard tends to bark your middle finger. The 146 grain bullet at 685 fps is slightly more powerful than .380 ACP with a 95 grain bullet at 955 fps, so nothing to write home about. I have noted several posts on this site from people who carry these, as they are very small and light.

 

[David Kachel]

I have S&Ws, Iver Johnsons, H&Rs and some others in .32 and .38 S&W. I shoot them all (of course they all lock up tight and are in overall excellent condition).
I shoot factory ammo in both calibers and have never had a single problem.
I think they are no more susceptible to problems than any other older gun. You just have to make sure it is mechanically sound and then use common sense.

 

[tgfang]

Thanks again for the replies.

Tiny sights and damaged fingers have cooled my interest somewhat. However, if I buy one I plan to shoot it.

Tom

 

[Old 44 Guy]

I have one & shoot it often. My handloads loaded down to resonable pressures. 146 gr. semi wadcutterd sized.359. Fun to shoot the old S&W break opens. Getting used to fine sights & grips takes some doing but the old .38 S&W is very accurate.