Different sized J-frames?

[Tacoma]

As noted the Jmagnum frame was phased in during 1996-1997 and is now the standard J frame. It was done to introduce the 357 flavor mod 60 and +P capable 38's. Grip size are still the same. Weight and size is about 10% higher. I have old and new J frames in both sizes. The older ones obviously conceal easier and weigh less. The extra beef of the new J magnums tend to make them shoot better IMHO.

 

[Ala Dan]

Att: Jim

My S&W model 37 is +P rated, and I do carry them for self D' work.
However, I would shoot only non +P ammo for training purposes; as
there is NO need to shake this little gem loose! Not singing my own
prasies, but I'm very confident in my ability to hit any target, so I"m
not going to shoot it much at all.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[Jim PHL]

ALA-
The one I'm looking at is a 37-2. +P OK?

 

[Jim PHL]

Sounds like the "J" and "J-Magnum" is similar to the "K" and "L" medium frame differences.

 

[BluesBear]

No the L-frame has a noticably larger cylinder window than a K frame.
The S&W L-frame is almost the exact same size as the Colt I frame (Trooper/Python) which Colt referred to as their .41 frame. (as in .41 Long Colt NOT .41 Magnum)

The S&W K-frame is closer to Colt's D-frame (Police Positive Special/Diamondback) which Colt reffered to as their .38 frame.

 

[Ala Dan]

Att: Jim

Yes, the S&W 37-2 is +P rated, however I would stay away from as
many of these rounds as I possibly could. I would say, just enough
to familiarize yourself with the gun and ammo combination is O.K.;
but don't give it a steady diet of +P's.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[Jim PHL]

Do different ammo weights 'inflict' more punishment than others? (On the gun, not the shooter, I mean.) It makes sense to me to practice with a standard pressure 158 gr. load if I plan to carry (and shoot occasionally) the 158 grain +P. It seems the most common practice loads (RNL and FMJ's) are 125 and 130 grain. Are the lighter bullet weights less punishing? Or is the wear and tear created by the pressure, making all standard pressure loads equally damaging?

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