Explanation of revolver frame types

[anapex]

Ok I've been shooting since I was a little scrub but I haven't had much experience with revolvers. Could someone explain to me the differences between the frame types available(IE: J-frame, N-frame, etc.)? And how do you tell which revolver is what frame type?

 

[Tamara]

These might help...

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9357

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7836

 

[bountyhunter]

Ok I've been shooting since I was a little scrub but I haven't had much experience with revolvers. Could someone explain to me the differences between the frame types available(IE: J-frame, N-frame, etc.)? And how do you tell which revolver is what frame type?

J = small frame, mostly snubbies, use a coil mainspring.

K = medium frame like model 66, mostly .38 / .357.

L = larger than K, used for the 686 size guns (.357)

N = Large frame, used for the model 27/28 .357 and the Dirty Harry (model 19) .44 mag

 

[Majic]

Actually Colt's medium frames are the E, I, J, and the AA.
Colt's large frames are the New Service frame and the MM.