[Jackal]

I guess that I'm asking this question kind of late, since i've already shot it a bunch. What I have is a "I" frame S&W .32Long hand ejector, 3rd model I belive, that was my great gandpa's. It locks up tight and is a wonderful shooter, but I was just cleaning and noticed the deep flame cutting. I estimate it to be .020 deep or there abouts. Take a look at the included pic. I don't think my great grandfather shot it very much and he only carried it because of some dangerous railroad union dispute in the 30's-40's that I really know nothing about. So, is it safe to fire with the flame cutting? Oh, ya, almost forgot to add that this was made before the cylinder was heat-treated.

Old Fuff, I'm waiting for an answer.:)

[dbarale]

BTT with one question, I thought flame cutting only occured with high pressure rounds. I never thought of the 32S&W being in that category. :what:
How did this happen? Just being curious.

[Jim Watson]

I'm not Old Fuff and that is not flame cutting. It was pretty usual in those days for the factory to cut a divot in the topstrap to smooth the gas flow to prevent flame cutting. It was built that way. Enjoy GGrandpa's pistol. Modern .32s are no hotter than they ever were.

[Jackal]

BTW, I should mention that I have only ever fired factory LRN or LWC ammo.

It was built that way. Enjoy GGrandpa's pistol.

That was the answer I was hoping for. Actually, it is better than the answer I was hoping for! Thanks a ton. It's really kinda funny, he carried it for about 20 years and I have already fired it more than he ever did. I am also considering maybe using it as a CCW. It would probably slip into a pocket holster quite well. I am also thinking of getting some of Magtech's new .32long JHP ammo.