HUGE Cylinder Gap on Some S&W Revolvers (Is it a problem?)

Published on August 4, 2017
Duration: 5:30

This video explains the significant cylinder gap found on certain Smith & Wesson revolvers, such as the 327, 627, and 625 models. The gap is a result of using frames designed for larger cartridges like the .44 Magnum with shorter cylinders for cartridges like .357 Magnum or .45 ACP. This design choice is driven by manufacturing cost and allows for shorter barrel shrouds on shorter barreled revolvers, contributing to weight savings and concealability without impacting reliability or performance.

Quick Summary

The large cylinder gap on Smith & Wesson revolvers like the 327, 627, and 625 is a result of using frames designed for larger cartridges (.44 Magnum) with shorter cylinders for other calibers (.357 Magnum, .45 ACP). This design choice is driven by manufacturing cost and allows for lighter, more concealable firearms with shorter barrel shrouds, without compromising reliability or performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction & Hot Weather
  2. 00:27The Cylinder Gap Question
  3. 00:45Visualizing the Gap
  4. 01:11Reason for the Gap: Frame Size
  5. 01:21Affected Models (627, 625)
  6. 01:40Frames Built for .44 Magnum
  7. 01:54Cost-Prohibitive to Redesign Frames
  8. 02:00Why Not a Longer Cylinder?
  9. 02:05Reason 1: Weight Savings
  10. 02:16Reason 2: Shorter Barrel Shroud
  11. 02:43Gap Explained: Frame vs. Cylinder Length
  12. 03:10No Performance or Reliability Issues
  13. 03:18Purely Aesthetic Concern
  14. 03:23Benefits of the Design (8 Shots)
  15. 03:40Conclusion: Live With It or Not

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some Smith & Wesson revolvers have a large cylinder gap?

The large cylinder gap on revolvers like the S&W 327, 627, and 625 is due to using frames designed for larger cartridges, such as the .44 Magnum. When shorter cylinders for cartridges like .357 Magnum or .45 ACP are fitted, this gap appears. It's a cost-saving measure and helps in creating shorter barrel shrouds.

Does a large cylinder gap affect the performance of a revolver?

No, a large cylinder gap on revolvers like the S&W 327 or 627 does not negatively impact their reliability or performance. The gap is primarily an aesthetic consideration resulting from frame design and manufacturing choices, not a functional defect.

What are the benefits of the design that creates a large cylinder gap in S&W revolvers?

The design that leads to a large cylinder gap allows manufacturers to use a single frame size for multiple calibers, reducing costs. It also enables shorter barrel shrouds on shorter-barreled revolvers, contributing to lighter weight and better concealability, which is advantageous for concealed carry.

Which Smith & Wesson revolver models commonly exhibit a large cylinder gap?

Common Smith & Wesson models that often display a noticeable cylinder gap include the 327 (8-shot .357 Magnum), the 627 (in various configurations), and the 625 (.45 ACP). These firearms utilize frames designed for larger magnum cartridges.

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