Which is stronger?

[Marshall 357]

I dont know a lot about different metals,but I have been wondering are blued steel guns stronger ,weaker or the same as stainless steel guns?
Might be a stupid question that really does not matter but I would like to know.

 

[1HAWKEYE]

Carbon steel (blued) is a little stronger than chromium (stainless). The carbon is harder but the chromium because of chrome is more rust resistant.

 

[stevieboy]

You've asked a technical question and I've seen it debated from time to time on this and other forums. I don't know the answer. But, I do know that any revolver made by Smith will perform just fine with whatever ammo it's rated to shoot. Thus, I happily shoot both 125 gr. and 158 gr. magnums from my stainless 686 without ever asking myself whether the blued 586 (identical in all other respects to the 686) is "stronger."

 

[Marshall 357]

Thanks guys

 

[kscardsfan]

According to Brownell's, the wear, strength, etc characteristics of carbon (blued) and stainless steel are for all practical respects identical.

 

[scooter123]

Actually, it depends on the particular alloy of each used. Type 416 stainless and 4140 "moly" steel have very similar mechanical properties when heat treated to the same hardness.

 

[Cool Hand Hodge]

In high power rifle shooting stainless barrels have a longer service life...FWIW