Light weight 3 inch K-Frame 38SPL+P

[Dave T]

This is the 3" model 12, it had a slimmer barrel than the 3" model 10 or model 65. This would be sweet built on a Scandium frame.
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If I had one of those it would live on Fed GMM Wadcutters. (smile)

Dave

 

[golden]

RMc,

I thing that S&W would probably have to come up with a new frame for this "NEW" model 12. It is not a bad idea and I have a model 12. It was one of my favorite "walking guns" for use when I went on long walks for exercise.
However, I no longer shoot +P ammo in it, due to reports of stretching and the possibility of cracking the frame or forcing cone.

That said, if S&W designed a new K-frame with a full round forcing cone and thicker top strap, it might only add an ounce or two. My 4 inch barrel, model 12 weighs about 20 ounces. If it weighed 22 ounces, it would not be a bother, but in a 4 inch, I would prefer a heavy barrel like that on the model 10 and model 15 revolvers, but that might make it too heavy for the intended market.

Jim

 

[Brian Williams]

, but in a 4 inch, I would prefer a heavy barrel like that on the model 10 and model 15 revolvers, but that might make it too heavy for the intended market.

Jim

I took a 4" Model 64 skinny barrel and put it on a model 65, this is a great gun. I thought the round butt, skinny standard barrel would make for a nice carry gun and it is. With 158gr LSWC or 180gr LRNFPGC it hits real nicely to POA.

 

[golden]

Brian,

To each his own. I have found that K-frame revolvers balance and shoot better for me with a heavy barrel. That has made my model 15's some of my favorite range guns and my first choice for a .38 Special defense gun.

Jim

 

[Dave T]

Ah, Model 15s have tapered barrels. The M-19 has a heavy barrel (and yes I know it isn't a 38 Special). You're appreciation for the M-15 probably has something to do with why it was named, before S&W used model numbers, the Combat Masterpiece. There are thousands, probably tens of thousands of hand gunners who all think the M-15 is something special. Particularly in the 38 Special chamberings.

Dave

 

[Jim Watson]

While S&W dithers, Taurus has come out with a 3" version of their 856, which is basically a Colt D-frame size revolver. On their web site they offer a alloy framed, spurless hammered version.

We had a Revolver Special USPSAish match yesterday and somebody commented that it was a very good configuration, if only they had any to sell. One guy was shooting a gunsmithed Smith, one of the many police surplus guns cut down to 3" roundbutt at considerable cost.

This is the 3" model 12, it had a slimmer barrel than the 3" model 10 or model 65.

Neat, I didn't know they made a 3". I have a 2" and have seen plenty of 4" but the 3" .38 has become a cult object.
The model 12 is kind of deceptive, its light weight makes it a kicker and its bulk lets the light weight sneak up on you.