Can K-Frame S&W Revolvers Handle Full Power .357mag Loads? (Cracked Forcing Cones)

Published on May 28, 2020
Duration: 3:56

This expert analysis from TheYankeeMarshal details a historical design flaw in older Smith & Wesson K-frame revolvers, specifically the Model 66 Combat Magnum, which made them susceptible to cracked forcing cones when firing full-power .357 Magnum ammunition. The issue stemmed from a necessary modification to the forcing cone to allow cylinder crane clearance. Newer models have rectified this by altering the crane design, making them safe for modern, high-pressure loads. This information is crucial for owners of older K-frames considering their ammunition choices.

Quick Summary

Older Smith & Wesson K-frame revolvers, like the Model 66, could crack their forcing cones with full-power .357 Magnum loads due to a design requiring a shaved flat spot for cylinder crane clearance. Newer models have rectified this by altering the crane, making them safe for hot loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:15K-Frame .357 Magnum Question
  2. 00:44Historical K-frame Issue Confirmed
  3. 01:08Original Forcing Cone Design Flaw
  4. 02:20New Model 66 Design Solution
  5. 02:50Crane and Ejector Rod Changes
  6. 03:25Conclusion: Modern K-frames Safe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can older Smith & Wesson K-frame revolvers like the Model 66 safely shoot full-power .357 Magnum loads?

Older S&W K-frames, particularly the Model 66, had a design flaw where the forcing cone was shaved to allow cylinder crane clearance. This thin section could crack under the pressure of full-power .357 Magnum loads. Newer models have corrected this issue.

What was the design flaw in older S&W K-frame forcing cones?

The original K-frame design shaved a flat spot off the bottom of the forcing cone to clear the cylinder crane. This created a thin wall that was prone to cracking when firing powerful .357 Magnum ammunition.

How did Smith & Wesson fix the forcing cone issue in newer Model 66 revolvers?

Smith & Wesson redesigned the clearance mechanism. Instead of shaving the forcing cone, they now file metal off the top of the cylinder crane. This preserves the forcing cone's structural integrity, making newer K-frames safe for full-power .357 Magnum loads.

Are all Smith & Wesson K-frames unsafe with .357 Magnum?

No, only older K-frame models with the specific forcing cone modification are at risk. Newer production K-frames, like the updated Model 66, have design changes that make them perfectly safe for full-power .357 Magnum ammunition.

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