[outfieldjack]

I keep seeing all of these references to "frames", can someone explain this to a newbie????

[FPrice]

The frame refers to the basic structure of the firearm. Basically how big or small it is and partially how strong it is. The frame of a revolver is the portion to which all other parts are attached. Years ago when metallurgy was not as good as it is today, the frame size dictated how powerful a cartridge the gun could handle. But now with modern steels and alloys this has been negated to some extent.

The frame size (I, K, N, etc. in the S&W family) also helps define a grouping of firearms which usually share similar characteristics. There are several books which could help explain this a bit better such as Supica and Nahas' guide to S&W's and Roy Jinks' book on the history of S&W. I am at work and don't have them handy but there should be someone else who will join in soon and add to this.

[DDGator]

There are others who will explain this with much more detail, but basically each "letter" represents a different Smith & Wesson frame size -- the higher the letter, the bigger the frame.

J-frames are the smallest currently available and are 5 shot .38, .357 Mag, 9mm (discontinued), or 6 or more shots in a smaller caliber like .32 or .22. These are guns like the Models 60, 642, 340.

K-frames are larger and are made for 6 shots of .38 or .357 and maybe others. Like the Model 10, 66.

L-frames are similar in size to K, but heavier and usually have a full underlug barrel. Like the Model 586, 686.

N-frames were the biggest until recently. N-frames are 6-shot in .44, .45 and 10mm. There is also an 8 shot .357 N-frame. Models like the 29, 329, 610, 625.

The new .500 is an X-frame that is even larger still and available in the .500 Magnum only.

[Tamara]

http://www.thehighroad.org/attachment.php?s=&postid=461522

1st row: J-frames (and one Improved-I)
2nd row: K-frames
3rd row: L-frames
4th row: N-frames
5th row: more N-frames

[PlayTheAces]

Sensory overload. Brain shutting down.............

[BluesBear]

All of the S&W frames have a alpha designation. The most commonly encountered today are the I,J,K,L,N & X

The I & J frames were originally commmonly called the .32 frame.
The K frame was originally commmonly called the .38 frame
The N frame was originally commmonly called the .44 frame

You'll hear some old timers talk about a .38 on a .44 frame or a .32 on a .38 frame or a .38 on a .32 frame.

The L frame was designed for a little more strength for .357 magnums and is sometimes called the .357 frame.

The L frame is similar in size to the Colt I (Python) frame which was originally called the .41 frame.

The new X frame is for the new .500S&W ctg. I think it will become known as the big damn frame.
:D

Colt also has the D frame (Detective Special, Diamondback etc).

The Colt Government & Commander models are call O frames.

Both Colt & S&W had/have other sizes but these are the most common.


Have we thrououghly confused you further?
If now we'll try harder next time.
:evil:

[Smokey Joe]

Tam that is an IMPRESSIVE collection! :) And I note that you aren't selling any of 'em. :)