.22 LR to .22WMR

[Melvin]

Has anyone converted a S&W revolver from .22 LR to .22 mag? Seems like it shouldn't be too much of a job,however I had to do a small lathe cut on the extractor star of a S&W 25-2 and had to use a carbide tool bit . The star was either full hard or case hardened.
Thanks Melvin

 

[DeBee]

Not generally recommended...

The bore diameter of a .22RF is generally around .222 and the chamber about .225", not to mention the headspace difference between .22RF and .22WMRF.

For less trouble, you could just pick up a used Ruger Single Six with a .22 Mag cylinder. Bore is about .224 on these so mag ammo is ok but accuracy suffers with .22RF

 

[Jim K]

I don't know about that S&W, but in general the conversion is not a good idea, even aside from barrel diameter. The barrels on most .22 LR guns are made of fairly soft steel and the .22 WMR will eat them up in a pretty short period of time, what with the high velocity and the jacketed bullet.

Not to mention that some older .22's won't take the higher pressures.

Jim

 

[GooseGestapo]

Melvin;
I suggest you take your question to www.rimfirecentral.com.
There are a lot of highly qualified rimfire affectionados there that can help you with your project.
You didn't say what model you were converting. If it is a K-frame, it would be easiest to fit a new cylinder.
The bore diameter would not be a major issue with the Revolver as the bullet will be passing through the forcing cone. Be sure to polish and lap the forcing cone. This will improve the accuracy.