underlug to half lug
- Thread starter lppd4
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Absolutely the full underlug can be ground off
However, it probably will not look like a Factory barrel, but that is mostly dependent on the skill of the person doing the grinding
I am guessing that you want a 5" standard profile appearance, otherwise you would probably just be asking about a barrel swap for a 4" 629 barrel
You might want to use the search function. I do recall a few threads on grinding the Big 500s to a more traditional looking profile. That might give you a provider or two that you can contact about the project.
However, it probably will not look like a Factory barrel, but that is mostly dependent on the skill of the person doing the grinding
I am guessing that you want a 5" standard profile appearance, otherwise you would probably just be asking about a barrel swap for a 4" 629 barrel
You might want to use the search function. I do recall a few threads on grinding the Big 500s to a more traditional looking profile. That might give you a provider or two that you can contact about the project.
The excess lug could be milled off using radius cutters then sandpaper with backing that matches the finished profile you want. The sides of the remaining shroud could remain the full round or could be profiled to match a 1/2
But it would be a lot easier to find a 8 3/8" or 6" 629-1 barrel and cut it to 5" and have it installed. You can save the long tube ramp and front sight and put it back on. Plus, the lettering will not be off that bad.
This was is a blue gun, but the barrel was originally an 8 3/8" and is now a 5"
But it would be a lot easier to find a 8 3/8" or 6" 629-1 barrel and cut it to 5" and have it installed. You can save the long tube ramp and front sight and put it back on. Plus, the lettering will not be off that bad.
This was is a blue gun, but the barrel was originally an 8 3/8" and is now a 5"
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I was out in my shop and as I have a 8 3/8" barrel off a 629-1 I looked and the lettering would be fine if it was cut to 5". But, the one I have was drilled and tapped in 2 spots on the rib for a scope. It came on one I converted to 45 colt.
racer19j
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racer19j
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I did them myself. Used a portable band saw, belt sander, files and lots of sand paper. Made some radius templates to keep everything the right shape. Takes along time.
ultratec00
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Have you thought about having a competent machinist mill the underlug flat and have a place to mount an accessory rail? I've had that hankering in the past and have a place to mount a light..
jtcarm
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Seeing as the OP is going for a better look, that would be a step backwards.
1/2 lug is the way God intended a large-frame DA revolver to look.
racer19j
Nice job, shows what a man can do with a few simple tools, time and patience. I only have a couple full lug guns, a 16-4 and a 5" 45 colt built using a 45acp barrel and a 629-1 frame.
Nice job, shows what a man can do with a few simple tools, time and patience. I only have a couple full lug guns, a 16-4 and a 5" 45 colt built using a 45acp barrel and a 629-1 frame.
I have many Smiths with full underlugs and they’re happy stay that way. 
I like the looks and how the full underlug helps with balance and stability on the shorter barreled guns, which I prefer. I do have an 8” 29-5 classic with scope that’s pretty hefty, but it will never see the sparks of a grinder or know the smell of Bondo.
I like the looks and how the full underlug helps with balance and stability on the shorter barreled guns, which I prefer. I do have an 8” 29-5 classic with scope that’s pretty hefty, but it will never see the sparks of a grinder or know the smell of Bondo.
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racer19j
Member
Thanks for the compliment Steelslaver. I’ve read several of your posts and can relate to your passion for salvaging or “improving” the guns that we love.
Like square butt or round, full lug, 1/2 or none, adjustable or fixed sights, long or short, fluted or fluted cylinder we all like what we like and fortunately most of it is available or can be done.
I am for everyone having just what they want
I am for everyone having just what they want
Pretty much anything you want can be done.
I had an extra one of these ......
so, I had this made.
KO
I had an extra one of these ......
so, I had this made.
KO
Marksman
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I have had two S & W's shortened to 5", a 6 1/2" M/624 and a M/29 8 3/8". Unfortunately the smith who did the work, Jim Stroh of Alpha Precision has retired.
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I have a 6" M586 and have often thought of milling down part of the barrel lug myself. Then..... I remember exactly WHY I purchased it in the first place. I had originally walked into the gun shop to buy a Colt Python with a 6" bbl. but balked at the price back in the early 1980's and wound up with the 6" M586. This thought comes and goes over the 40 years I have owned it but it's still in its original configuration - probably always will be.
twodog max
Member
I can live with the full lug barrels but have to say the half lug are my preference. The full lug I most would like to see changed is my 617 but at this point in time I figure it will stay as is.
kamloops67
Member
I also have a 629 with 5” barrel and full under lug
A lot more weight than it needs
I would happily swap profiles for a half lug style. I’m pretty handy with tools but I don’t think I’d try to do this myself
Steelslaver: that is a perfectly proportioned revolver now . Nice work .
Good luck
A lot more weight than it needs
I would happily swap profiles for a half lug style. I’m pretty handy with tools but I don’t think I’d try to do this myself
Steelslaver: that is a perfectly proportioned revolver now . Nice work .
Good luck
__steve__
Member
Amen to that
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