Some time ago I acquired a 1917 .45 that has been nickel plated. The accuracy is nothing to brag about so I got to thinking, I have a NOS model 29 stainless cylinder and wonder if the cost of a model 29 barrel would be a reasonable expense in converting this old N frame to a faux 29! Anyone have any experience in this particular conversion?
Worth the effort?
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I've never done a conversion like that and would never do so because the 1917 is an old war horse and IMHO should not be mixed with modern parts. I'd also be afraid of cracking the old tired Frame when swapping out the barrel.
Even if you did the conversion, for what it would cost you, you could probably buy a 95% condition M29! Personally, I'd just enjoy the M1917 for what it is and not push a gun that is 105 years old! Personally, I'd also use relatively mild loads in it as I do in all guns old enough to give us history lessons - lol.
Even if you did the conversion, for what it would cost you, you could probably buy a 95% condition M29! Personally, I'd just enjoy the M1917 for what it is and not push a gun that is 105 years old! Personally, I'd also use relatively mild loads in it as I do in all guns old enough to give us history lessons - lol.
Doc,
That frame is not up to shooting a cartridge that can generate 36,000 PSI of chamber pressure.
Remember the 1917 was designed decades before the release of the First Magnum handgun cartridge.
Now if you wanted to make that revolver into a 44 Special that would be another story, the 44 Special has a SAAMI MAX Pressure of 15,500 PSI
As to your accuracy issues. are you using cast projectiles ? If so, are you using projectiles sized to your bore ? Lead need to match.
A switch to jacketed/plated/coated projectiles will probably increase your revolver's accuracy potential. Jacketed/plated/coated projectiles are much more forgiving on sizing issues
I sure wish I knew where chief38 was buying those Model 29s. I have never seen a Model 29 for sale in any condition for the cost of a barrel and cylinder.
That frame is not up to shooting a cartridge that can generate 36,000 PSI of chamber pressure.
Remember the 1917 was designed decades before the release of the First Magnum handgun cartridge.
Now if you wanted to make that revolver into a 44 Special that would be another story, the 44 Special has a SAAMI MAX Pressure of 15,500 PSI
As to your accuracy issues. are you using cast projectiles ? If so, are you using projectiles sized to your bore ? Lead need to match.
A switch to jacketed/plated/coated projectiles will probably increase your revolver's accuracy potential. Jacketed/plated/coated projectiles are much more forgiving on sizing issues
I sure wish I knew where chief38 was buying those Model 29s. I have never seen a Model 29 for sale in any condition for the cost of a barrel and cylinder.
If your 1917 barrel bore is in good shape, you could consider having the .44 cyl rechamberd to 45 ACP with the chamber throats properly sized.
As posted above, the 1917 does not hav the proper heat treatment for any magnum cartridges. It was designed for cartridges with 20,000 max pressure.
And if your not a fan of 45 ACP and using 1/2 moon clips, shoot 45 Auto Rim for normal case extraction.
As posted above, the 1917 does not hav the proper heat treatment for any magnum cartridges. It was designed for cartridges with 20,000 max pressure.
And if your not a fan of 45 ACP and using 1/2 moon clips, shoot 45 Auto Rim for normal case extraction.
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