Why my Model 64 won't work with .357?

[davidj]

The model 64 is "k"-frame and S&W built "k"-frame .357s (the models 13, 19, 65, 66). Note the word "built" not "builds" -- S&W decided the "k"-frame wasn't quite strong enough for daily .357 use. The problem wasn't blowups but shaking apart too quickly.

"Theoretically" you could change the caliber to .357 by changing the barrel and cylinder (which is a somewhat involved process -- not something you are doing without a few specialized tools and some know-how). The real question is whether you want to rely on a frame that was only put together with 38 components. Given that the model 64 is of relatively recent vintage my hunch is that the gun would work and be serviceable. But there is a chance there. Now if you were to use a "k"-frame that was older you would really be taking some chances. As a number of people have said, you would be better off just buying another gun. Just the cylinder and the barrel are going to set you back over $200 (for new S&W parts) and if you want to do the work yourself you will need around $500 in tools (at least).

 

[davidj]

Odly enough, I have a customized mod 64 that was rebored to 357 by the previous owner. He reportedly shot 357 out of it for practice but I never have. Not sure if he did anything to the cyl for heat treating either. I'll only shoot 38's out of it myself.

Are you sure that's a model 64? It just doesn't look right. Looks more like a chromed or nickeled pre-10... Who knows, just asking

 

[Wee Hooker]

Are you sure that's a model 64? It just doesn't look right. Looks more like a chromed or nickeled pre-10... Who knows, just asking

Yea, it's a 64 but the light in the pic is bad. 64 is stamped right in the frame. It's been polished on sides and bead blasted on edges. Checkering on front of (squared )trigger guard and top of hammer. I'm not sure if the SS barrel is original and modified or if it was re barreled all together. The previous owner put a ton of work ( and $) into this thing looking for the ultimate carry revolver. It's an odd looking duck but a nice shooter. Only paid $200 OTD as I recall.