Converting S&W Model 39-2

[idoono]

I was reading a pistolsmithing book yesterday and came across a section that caught my interest. It talked about converting a S&W M39-2 pistol to 38 Super by using a square reamer in the chamber. Has anyone heard of this? Would it be safe? I can find a used barrel for this project but do not want to do anything stupid.

idoono

 

[Jim Watson]

Boy, that's an old one.
Jerry Gebby, Father of the .22 Varminter (.22-250) did a piece on converting the M39 to .38 Super about 40-50 years ago.

Yes, it is possible to ream out the M39 chamber to accept a .38 Super cartridge. But then you have pretty much a wildcat. The magazine won't take standard .38 Supers so you have to handload short OAL ammo for it. Gebby recommended 90 grain bullets to fit the clip and give high velocity.

He also pointed out that after the brass was fireformed to the tapered chamber, it would hold more powder. That would make most people nervous in this day and age of concerns over "supported chambers."

I wouldn't do it. High end 9mm is pretty close to .38 Super anyhow. You have to go to the big loads to show an advantage for the longer case. Remember that sloppy chamber?

 

[BBBBill]

I'm with Jim on this one for all of the reasons that he stated. Bad idea!

 

[lathedog]

I concur and will add logistical reasons.

38 Super has a lot of cool factor going for it, but hard to find.

The 39-2 is also getting to be hard to find.

It is an intriguing concept. Well worth hypothetical discussion.

 

[rcmodel]

+1

If you try it and it doesn't work, you just destroyed a very nice old gun they don't make parts for anymore.

Leave it be.

rc

 

[idoono]

Thank You

Thank you all for your input. I'll keep the 39 as is and just buy me a 38 Super ..... why do I want a 38 Super? Just cuz I don't have one. No real need.

Thanks again!

idoono

 

[BBBBill]

..... why do I want a 38 Super? Just cuz I don't have one.

And that's good enough! It is a fun round. My first carry gun was an early 70's Colt Combat Commander in 38S. I still have it. Not very accurate at first due to the ols style barrel, but outstanding now with the replacement barrel.

 

[JMACDONALD]

Use a replacement slide and barrel so you dont ruin the original ones. Then you can have a classic Smith and a custom toy all in one.

 

[dprice3844444]

try to find one with a steel frame for the super instead of alloy.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.38_Super

http://www.gunsamerica.com/Search.aspx?T=colt 38 super some for sale here
try gunbroker.com most 38 supers are on 45 frames.