I like the LCR very much and certainly wasn't intending to criticize it with my referenced link, just passing on what was reported. I suspect that most, if not all, alloy-framed snubbies might exhibit some of the same after 5,000 rounds of plus-P ammo but am not sure. Of your 3 LCRs, I am
assuming that only one is chambered in .357 but feel it should be noted that the .357 version has a stainless steel frame, not aluminum alloy and
should be less likely to exhibit the same degree, if any, of frame stretching over time.
Personally, I have a good enough supply of earlier S&W airweights without locks, MIM parts, etc. that I have not yet convinced myself that an LCR (or any other newly designed lightweight snubby) would provide me with something I don't already have but I'll still probably get one one of these days...
.
Edited to add: I should note that several people I know who have purchased LCRs and love them have told me that they keep them loaded with standard pressure ammo (one saying he keeps it loaded with 148 grain wadcutters to keep recoil down for his wife and anyone else who might need it. Another reason why I personally don't see the need for plus P capability if the light weight means standard pressure ammo is more shootable, more accurate, and provides faster follow-up shots. One of these days I hope to actually shoot one, preferably with the compact grip and see for myself. I generally keep my little Smiths loaded with 125 grain Nyclads which I feel provide a good balance of shootability and effectiveness though I wouldn't hesitate to load them with plus P in a pinch.
