I was lucky to buy the stainless 3.5" snub nose new...Now curious about frame size - cylinder is N, was once told K frame for the round butt. Looking for best way to confirm the size, actually wondering about a Barimi hip grip fitment. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Removed stock wood grips off long ago.
Smith & Wesson 624 44Special round butt size.
- Thread starter Nick69
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The one RB N-frame I had didn't stay around long, so my experience is minimal. However, prevailing wisdom seems to be that the N-frame Round Butt is indeed of K-frame dimensions (which are also shared with the L-frame guns). Should therefore accept any K/L stocks.
Larry
Larry
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greenmachine
Member
I believe K and L frame guns accept the same grips. N-Frame grips are different. Your 624 is an N-Frame.
I think you're right(what I heard back then) and replaced stock wood with Pachmayr rubber grips. Guess I'll just take them off and go to some gun shops. Thanks
Pizza Bob
Member
I remember a print ad from Lew Horton touting the 3" guns as having K/L-frame round butt dimensions. I don't remember if that applied to the 24's, 624's or both. The ad was reproduced here on the forum in an older thread - my search-foo is weak.
Adios,
Pizza Bob
Adios,
Pizza Bob
Snapping Twig
Member
I do believe they are K/L dimension, at least mine are. 
I've had this question before and did some testing.
The original ads and Dick Metcalf write-up of the 3" Models 24-3 and 624 RB grip frames were generalized comparisons that led to this confusion.
There is a difference between the original 'N frame' RB grip frames of the 3" Models 24-3 and 624, and the later 'N frame' RB grip frame size. RB frames introduced after the 1995-96 change orders, are a different 'N frame' RB grip frame size WHICH IS the same as the K/L frame grip size.
1. The earliest RB N frames have 'true N size' RB grip frames which only have a lower butt size of the K/L RBs. They're stocks will correctly fit the N frame knuckle behind the hammer and are the correct width across the medallion area, of N frames with square butt grip frames. This grip frame shape was used on the 3" Models 24-3 and 624 as well as a few other earlier RB N frames like the limited production "Heritage" Model 44 Spl (with rib-less barrel) which also had RB grips of true N frame size.
2. The later N frame RB guns, after the RB became standard on N frames, 1995-96, all seem to have the N frame RB grip frames. For example, the Model 329 air-weight 44 Mag (2003) also has the N frame RB butt grip frame. The X frame 500 Mag RB size across the medallion area and at the knuckle is clearly a K/L frame RB grip frame. However the 500 Hogue "Tamer" rubber grips with Sorbatane will fit the 329, 24-3, 624, 610, 625, 325 Nighthawk and other N frame size grip frames because they cover the backstrap and are stretchy. This and other information I had received led me for one, to believe there were also K/L size RB grip frames on N frame models. With additional input, it now appears there are not.
Hope this is helpful in clearing it up,
The original ads and Dick Metcalf write-up of the 3" Models 24-3 and 624 RB grip frames were generalized comparisons that led to this confusion.
There is a difference between the original 'N frame' RB grip frames of the 3" Models 24-3 and 624, and the later 'N frame' RB grip frame size. RB frames introduced after the 1995-96 change orders, are a different 'N frame' RB grip frame size WHICH IS the same as the K/L frame grip size.
1. The earliest RB N frames have 'true N size' RB grip frames which only have a lower butt size of the K/L RBs. They're stocks will correctly fit the N frame knuckle behind the hammer and are the correct width across the medallion area, of N frames with square butt grip frames. This grip frame shape was used on the 3" Models 24-3 and 624 as well as a few other earlier RB N frames like the limited production "Heritage" Model 44 Spl (with rib-less barrel) which also had RB grips of true N frame size.
2. The later N frame RB guns, after the RB became standard on N frames, 1995-96, all seem to have the N frame RB grip frames. For example, the Model 329 air-weight 44 Mag (2003) also has the N frame RB butt grip frame. The X frame 500 Mag RB size across the medallion area and at the knuckle is clearly a K/L frame RB grip frame. However the 500 Hogue "Tamer" rubber grips with Sorbatane will fit the 329, 24-3, 624, 610, 625, 325 Nighthawk and other N frame size grip frames because they cover the backstrap and are stretchy. This and other information I had received led me for one, to believe there were also K/L size RB grip frames on N frame models. With additional input, it now appears there are not.
Hope this is helpful in clearing it up,
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Jim: To add to the confusion, I have a 24-3, 3" RB and it came with the factory RB finger groove stocks. I don't like these stocks and replaced with some N Frame RB to SB conversion stocks, aftermarket, and then I modified them to my liking. The "N" Frame stocks fir perfectly and very snug. I do know my gun shipped 7/84. So what you are saying is this same configuration Mod 24, made after 94/95 will have different size grip frame.
Actually, that fits the pattern.
The Model 24-3, 3" RB was introduced in 1983 and produced only thru 1985, followed by the 624 produced 1985-1987. They both have the N frame size RB grip frame.
The only other 3" Model 24 produced after that to my knowledge was again a special Lew Horton edition issued in 2006; the 24-6 w/lock in blue and nickel, but all had sq butt grip frames.
The Heritage Series Model 24-5 with 6" barrel was offered in 2001. It has the N frame size RB grip frame of the M 24 & 24-3 with pre war style round top service grips. (They may be the only "standard style" RB grips produced in the N frame size.)
A member has PM'ed me indicating that he tested the Models 325 from after 2006, 610 and 625, both introduced in 1989, the 610 with the N frame RB. The 625 had the 1995-96 engineering change order to the N frame size RB. The 325 Nighthawk was a much later introduction, which I believe also have the N frame size RB grip frame.
The Model 24-3, 3" RB was introduced in 1983 and produced only thru 1985, followed by the 624 produced 1985-1987. They both have the N frame size RB grip frame.
The only other 3" Model 24 produced after that to my knowledge was again a special Lew Horton edition issued in 2006; the 24-6 w/lock in blue and nickel, but all had sq butt grip frames.
The Heritage Series Model 24-5 with 6" barrel was offered in 2001. It has the N frame size RB grip frame of the M 24 & 24-3 with pre war style round top service grips. (They may be the only "standard style" RB grips produced in the N frame size.)
A member has PM'ed me indicating that he tested the Models 325 from after 2006, 610 and 625, both introduced in 1989, the 610 with the N frame RB. The 625 had the 1995-96 engineering change order to the N frame size RB. The 325 Nighthawk was a much later introduction, which I believe also have the N frame size RB grip frame.
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I believe that you're correct. Although a recent issue, the 2001 limited production "Heritage Series" Model 24-5, 44 Spl. for Lew Horton with rib-less barrel, did come with RB grip frame of true N frame size, and round top service grips. They may be the only "standard style" RB grips produced in the N frame size.
S&W 624 44 Special RB
Okay thanks, It was likely back in the 1980's when I bought it new. Now trying to remember if there was a red sticker on the box - concerning cylinder replacement. How do I go about confirming whether that issue is no concern. I probably fired about a box of rounds at first ownership and then just cleaned and carried for a few. After just cleaning and admiring the beauty for years. Would like to start shooting and carrying again with safe pride. Further information regarding the cylinder; shall be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Nick...
Okay thanks, It was likely back in the 1980's when I bought it new. Now trying to remember if there was a red sticker on the box - concerning cylinder replacement. How do I go about confirming whether that issue is no concern. I probably fired about a box of rounds at first ownership and then just cleaned and carried for a few. After just cleaning and admiring the beauty for years. Would like to start shooting and carrying again with safe pride. Further information regarding the cylinder; shall be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Nick...
Nick,
624/629 Cylinder Recall
THE ALLEGED ISSUE:
The Skeeter Skelton article in the October 1985 issue of Shooting Times magazine stated: "A steel supplier has just advised Smith & Wesson that they shipped a very small quantity of incorrect stainless steel material (11 bars) to us that was not in accordance with their certifications. The incorrect material was used in the cylinders for some large-frame stainless-steel revolvers, Model Numbers 624 (.44 Special) and 629 (.44 Magnum). The approximately 500 units containing this material were shipped from Smith & Wesson between January 1, 1985 and June 8, 1985. They would be included in the following ranges of serial numbers: ADXXXXX, AEXXXXX, AFXXXXX, AGXXXXX, AHXXXXX, ALVXXXX, N910000 thru N953000."
Skeeter goes on to say that the bad cylinder steel caused the recall of about 21,000 guns to find 500 with improper steel.
OFFICIAL S&W RELEASE:
Kate Fredette of Smith & Wesson basically confirmed this same info. The serial number range includes:
ADXXXX
AEXXXX
AFXXXX
AGXXXX
AHXXXX
ALVXXX (the "V" is not a typo)
N910000 thru N953000
"Recalled guns were shipped between Jan 1, 1985 and June 8, 1985 only. The cylinder has to be checked on these handguns and the only way to know is by checking the full serial number against their records. The problem involves 500 guns shipped during that period.
If a handgun in the recalled range has already been returned to the factory for testing, a red letter "C" that is circled will be stamped on the box label, indicating that the gun passed re-inspection. No marks are made on the cylinder of checked guns, only the red "C" in the circle stamped on the box label.
"If your gun is within this range and you do not have a box or know for certain that it has been tested, you should contact Smith & Wesson. S&W's records prior to 1986 are not computerized, so it takes them a l little longer to look up the particulars.
"You can E-mail your gun's serial number to:
[email protected]
"S&W will contact you regarding the status of your particular gun. If your gun is included in the recall, you'll be sent a prepaid FedEx label and shipping instructions. While E-mail is best, you may also call S&W Customer Support at 1-800-331-0852.
"Recalled cylinders are tested by magnafluxing*. If your recalled gun does fail, there are no replacement cylinders. S&W will keep your gun and you will be offered the choice of another handgun of equal value or a refund.
THE 'REAL' STORY FROM ROY JINKS:
In response to a member's email, asking Roy Jinks about the steel used in the cylinder in February of 2008 and he replied:
"The cylinder problem was the fact that some cylinders had long charge holes and you could chamber the .44 Magnum round in the cylinder. So it is an easy check. If the gun will chamber the .44 Magnum round then it has one of the cylinders that was affected. if it does not chamber the round then you are okay. You will still be okay as long as you shoot only .44 Specials in the revolver."
"Believe what you want to, but it was my project and I certainly do not remember a problem with the stainless steel for the cylinders."
NOW CONSIDER THIS:
If S&W were to recall revolvers to have their cylinders checked, wouldn't it be more like factory protocol and make more sense to mark the cylinder rather than stamping a red circled "C" on the box? How many boxes are usually retained with the revolver and how reliable/efficient would a marked box be?
* I suspect magnafluxing was actually to verify if someone had shot 44 Mags in the cylinder and damaged it.
624/629 Cylinder Recall
THE ALLEGED ISSUE:
The Skeeter Skelton article in the October 1985 issue of Shooting Times magazine stated: "A steel supplier has just advised Smith & Wesson that they shipped a very small quantity of incorrect stainless steel material (11 bars) to us that was not in accordance with their certifications. The incorrect material was used in the cylinders for some large-frame stainless-steel revolvers, Model Numbers 624 (.44 Special) and 629 (.44 Magnum). The approximately 500 units containing this material were shipped from Smith & Wesson between January 1, 1985 and June 8, 1985. They would be included in the following ranges of serial numbers: ADXXXXX, AEXXXXX, AFXXXXX, AGXXXXX, AHXXXXX, ALVXXXX, N910000 thru N953000."
Skeeter goes on to say that the bad cylinder steel caused the recall of about 21,000 guns to find 500 with improper steel.
OFFICIAL S&W RELEASE:
Kate Fredette of Smith & Wesson basically confirmed this same info. The serial number range includes:
ADXXXX
AEXXXX
AFXXXX
AGXXXX
AHXXXX
ALVXXX (the "V" is not a typo)
N910000 thru N953000
"Recalled guns were shipped between Jan 1, 1985 and June 8, 1985 only. The cylinder has to be checked on these handguns and the only way to know is by checking the full serial number against their records. The problem involves 500 guns shipped during that period.
If a handgun in the recalled range has already been returned to the factory for testing, a red letter "C" that is circled will be stamped on the box label, indicating that the gun passed re-inspection. No marks are made on the cylinder of checked guns, only the red "C" in the circle stamped on the box label.
"If your gun is within this range and you do not have a box or know for certain that it has been tested, you should contact Smith & Wesson. S&W's records prior to 1986 are not computerized, so it takes them a l little longer to look up the particulars.
"You can E-mail your gun's serial number to:
[email protected]
"S&W will contact you regarding the status of your particular gun. If your gun is included in the recall, you'll be sent a prepaid FedEx label and shipping instructions. While E-mail is best, you may also call S&W Customer Support at 1-800-331-0852.
"Recalled cylinders are tested by magnafluxing*. If your recalled gun does fail, there are no replacement cylinders. S&W will keep your gun and you will be offered the choice of another handgun of equal value or a refund.
THE 'REAL' STORY FROM ROY JINKS:
In response to a member's email, asking Roy Jinks about the steel used in the cylinder in February of 2008 and he replied:
"The cylinder problem was the fact that some cylinders had long charge holes and you could chamber the .44 Magnum round in the cylinder. So it is an easy check. If the gun will chamber the .44 Magnum round then it has one of the cylinders that was affected. if it does not chamber the round then you are okay. You will still be okay as long as you shoot only .44 Specials in the revolver."
"Believe what you want to, but it was my project and I certainly do not remember a problem with the stainless steel for the cylinders."
NOW CONSIDER THIS:
If S&W were to recall revolvers to have their cylinders checked, wouldn't it be more like factory protocol and make more sense to mark the cylinder rather than stamping a red circled "C" on the box? How many boxes are usually retained with the revolver and how reliable/efficient would a marked box be?
* I suspect magnafluxing was actually to verify if someone had shot 44 Mags in the cylinder and damaged it.
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a picture is worth a 1000 words........
Model 66 2.5" Round Butt K Frame
Lew Horton Model 24-3 3" Round Butt N Frame
Model 66 with 24-3 stocks
Model 24 with 66 stocks
Model 66 2.5" Round Butt K Frame
Lew Horton Model 24-3 3" Round Butt N Frame
Model 66 with 24-3 stocks
Model 24 with 66 stocks
flundertaker,
Great photos. But the real confusion is about the N frame RB size after the 1995-96 general discontinuance of the N frame sq butt. Do you have any photos of 29s etc., with your grips on them?
Thx,
Great photos. But the real confusion is about the N frame RB size after the 1995-96 general discontinuance of the N frame sq butt. Do you have any photos of 29s etc., with your grips on them?
Thx,
Jim - Hold that thought. I have a RB 629-5 NATO that I will put them on in a few minutes and post a pic.
Model 629-5 NATO (c. 2000-2001) with K frame Round Butt Combats
Model 629-5 with Combats off 24-3 LH. Good fit would have been better but locater pin from Hogue monogrip saddle was a bit too long and I didnt want to squeeze the Combats or remove the pin.
Grip frame side by side 629-5 on left, 24-3 on right. Appear to be the same size. I can put a dial caliper on them at a few points if there is some specific area we need to measure.
Model 629-5 NATO (c. 2000-2001) with K frame Round Butt Combats
Model 629-5 with Combats off 24-3 LH. Good fit would have been better but locater pin from Hogue monogrip saddle was a bit too long and I didnt want to squeeze the Combats or remove the pin.
Grip frame side by side 629-5 on left, 24-3 on right. Appear to be the same size. I can put a dial caliper on them at a few points if there is some specific area we need to measure.
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What's a NATO?
629-5 Stealth Hunter from Performance Center, color Birdsong NATO green and black. Camfour Distributers 2000-2001. Standard Catalog p. 359.
My apologies for the incorrect reference. I use the NATO term to differentiate from the several other Stealth and Hunter models introduced over time. To my knowledge, this is the only one that was offered in the Birdsong green and black scheme.
This has come up a few times previously and is covered in this recent thread:
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1980-present/395328-24-3-k-frame.html
And, pictures are worth thousands of words. Flundertaker, thanks for the great photos. Precisely illustrates the issue.
http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1980-present/395328-24-3-k-frame.html
And, pictures are worth thousands of words. Flundertaker, thanks for the great photos. Precisely illustrates the issue.
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