J-frame or LCR- durability

[Fat Boy]

I am planning to add a snub-nose 38 spec to my collection and have it narrowed to a s&w j-frame or LCR. Question is; which one is more durable?

 

[19-3Ben]

J frame is a size, but not a specific model.

You could be taking about a model 60 which is solid stainless steel and will outlive your grandchildren, or you could be talking about a 642/442 which is an aluminum alloy and will likely last more rounds than you could ever shoot out of it but would give up some durability to the steel framed models.

If you give us a model number, you'll get a more meaningful answer, but ultimately, the answer will likely be that either one will last longer than you so it doesn't really make a whole lot of difference.

 

[rcmodel]

but ultimately, the answer will likely be that either one will last longer than you so it doesn't really make a whole lot of difference.

This!!

My oldest J-Frame Kit Gun was made in 1958.
My most used Bodyguard was made in 1971.

Both are still as good as the day they were made.

rc

 

[jon86]

I have no way to prove it, but the cylinder on my j frame definately has more play then when I bought it. The cylinder release is very loose. It is an airweight model, for what it is worth. I have never owned an lcr so I cant comment on that. My next j frame will most likely be an m&p 340 for the added strength. It will only see 38 special ammo however.

 

[Fat Boy]

My apologies- the j-frame will be alloy: probably a 442

 

[namvet68]

If you really want an apples to apples comparison you will have to look at the S&W hammerless revolvers :

Mgf. Model Cal. Cap. Matl.
SW 442 .38 5 Al
SW 340pd .357 5 Scandium
SW 638 .38 5 SS
SW 649 .357 5 SS
R LCR .38 5 Al
R LCR .357 5 SS

I think all of the S&W's are smaller than a J-frame. I have shot the 340PD and the LCR .357 and bought the LCR. It had a better feel for my hand and the perceived recoil was less shooting .38's.

 

[rcmodel]

No, all the S&W's listed are J-Frames.

The Ruger's are not, because Ruger doesn't use that frame size designation.

rc

 

[namvet68]

Thanks, RC ; I was not sure so I didn't want to assume they were j-frame.

 

[Jim NE]

Most snubbies are shot at the range to keep one familiar with their carry piece rather than for extensive target practice or competition. To that extent, I would believe both guns would be sufficiently durable. The j frames I have are durable.

 

[9mmepiphany]

Based most on the material that are manufactured from, the LCR should be more durable

The 642 has an aluminum frame paired with a steel cylinder and barrel.

The LCR uses a steel frame, barrel and cylinder paired with a polymer grip frame. The elasticity of the polymer is more durable than alloy

 

[Desertrat357]

I've had my LCR 38 +P for about three years. Granted that really isn't enough time for a real durability eval. But it has had approx. 300 rounds fired through it and I have not noticed any negative wear or things loosening up in that time.

 

[351 WINCHESTER]

I have a 640 that has survived a lot of rounds, many were the old +P+ Treasury load as made by Winchester and Federal. Ammo was free so it got shot often. Other than a hint of endshake (common on s & w's) it's never let me down.

I don't know how it compares to the Ruger lcr, but I've put more rounds downrange with that gun than the average shooter puts in a lifetime I'll bet.

 

[KenW.]

I own both a S&W 36 and a .38 LCR. The LCR is lighter, but every bit as tough as the 36. Much less felt recoil too. The hammerless LCR slides into and out of the pocket with ease.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

My apologies- the j-frame will be alloy: probably a 442

I carry a M442 daily and I practice with it a lot. It's still as tight as when I bought it 5 or 6 years ago. The M642 I was carrying before that is still being carried by my son.

The M442 is also very good looking too!