SW Model 10 barrel swap

[EddieG54]

I have a couple of SW Model 10 police trade-in's with 4" heavy barrels. Would like to change one to a 2" barrel. Other than the barrel and 2" ejector rod what else is required? Just looking to put a price on needed parts? Thanks

 

[BBBBill]

Barrel vise blocks, action wrench to fit the receiver (MGW or similar), feeler gauges to measure barrel to cylinder gap, something to trim the barrel shoulder if needed to get the barrel to torque up correctly (lathe is the best way, but Brownells sells a manual tool for that, or did), something to face off the barrel face to set barrel to cylinder gap (lathe again or the tools from Brownells), something to recut the forcing cone if you have to face the barrel (tools from Brownells). The tools can possibly be rented from 4D Reamer Rentals vs purchase. Don't risk twisting the frames by using a block of wood or hammer handle through the cylinder window. Cheaping out can end up costing you more in the long run.

 

[EddieG54]

BBBBill, Thanks for the info. I think I may take the revolver to a gunsmith not far from me and see what the cost difference is between him doing a barrel swap or just trading a 4" for a 2" Smith & Wesson. With high prices and lack of availability of used S&W revolvers it may be a project I put on the back burner for now.

 

[BBBBill]

Vet your "gunsmith" carefully. There are far too many out there who think that they are gunsmiths when they are, at best, parts swappers. Get some references, look at some of his work. I can build a a great 1911 from ovesize slides, frames, barrels ,etc. I can also do an S&W revolver (no, I am not in the business anymore, sorry), Ruger revolver, Colt V/AA frame revolver, etc, but I would not even think about trying to build a Colt D/E/I frame revolver. I just do not have the skills for those. Unfortunately there are a lot of "gunsmiths" who think that skills with one type gun makes them qualifed to work on any other type.

 

[1KPerDay]

I would look for someone to trade revolvers with, or just buy a 2" M10.

 

[EddieG54]

I had talked to a LGS about trading but the difference between my revolver and his was too much. That's when the discussion about a barrel swap came up. I'm going to hold off and see what shows up in the next few months. Thanks

 

[1KPerDay]

Wish I had one to trade you. the 4" HB M10 is the best variant IMO.

 

[Rubone]

I would just try to buy another gun. Never can have too many and it gives you the opportunity to compare in the real (your) world.

 

[4v50 Gary]

If you take a revolver repair class at a NRA gunsmithing summer school, you can probably swap out the barrel during your lunch hour. Check to make sure the school has the tools first.