S&W model 60 questions

[madmax79]

I just acquired a S&W model 60 (2" barrel) thru a trade and it says .38 on the barrel. Most of the info I have found says model 60 is both .357 and .38.

Did they make separate models in .357 and .38? I know the .357 will shoot .38 but not the other way around.

Also, is there a way to determing the era of the pistol by the serial #?

 

[CH47gunner]

More info?

If it'll shoot .357, it should say .357 on the barrel. If it only says .38spl, then .38spl only. .357 mags won't fit in the cylinder - too long & don't try.

Is there a dash number?
There may be a dash number next to the model number. If so, what is it?
If there is no dash number, or if it's an early dash number, you may even need to be careful of +P ammunition.
I have a Model 60 (no dash), I was told not to use +P ammunition on a daily basis. It's OK to use "occasionally", like maybe for homeloads test & use.

Bruce

 

[sabre]

Model 60's made before 1996 were chambered for 38 SPL, since then they are 357 Magnum. Why not use a new model number? Don't know, S&W did/does some wierd things with their numbering scheme.

If you post your guns serial number I or someone else can look up an approximate date of manufacture.

Bill

 

[MICHAEL T]

Early ones were 38 spl. Later 357. Even if a 357 I would still shoot 38spl

 

[madmax79]

Thanks. I'm headed to the range tomorrow.

 

[BlindJustice]

I have the 60-15 3" Bbl. Len. .357 Mag. I am satisfied with
.38 Spcl. +P 125 gr. Speer Gold Dot JHP considering recoil, &
muzzle blast but it is nice having the .357 Mag in the same or
less bullet weights as an option. My 686P handles the full
house .357 Mag. loads which is approriate as it is more of a
field/range gun. THe 60 is HD and I think 1,000 fps or
less is best for the indoor HD/SD action.

.357 Mag.case is 1/8th of an inch longer so that it WON'T
chamber in a gun only chambered for .38 SPecial.

 

[NCHornet]

The model 60 is a great little snub nose. I have a mid 80's and they of course are only 38 special. +P rounds aren't a problem as long as it's not excessive.
NCH

 

[Elvishead]

It say what on the barrel?!! I would only shoot .38's in it.