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Difference between .38 and .357 K frames?
- Thread starter Handy
- Start date
barrel breach
I think the magnums have thicker metal at the breech of the barrel as that part takes a pounding when the round is hammered into the back of the barrel. More susceptable to cracking and erosion in a magnum, there. I can't see much other evidence of a difference but I suspect the metallurgy of the cylinders and barrels was improved in the 50's as compared to the prewar guns. I think I would not bore out the cylinder for a magnum round in an older prewar or even pre 60's gun as it was proofed for .38s. You probably could reface the rear of the 38 barrel to admit a magnum length cylinder into the frame, but then you would have to rework the throat of the barrel. I think you might be getting at- what are the strengths of a late model 38 versus a late model 357 in the same frame size. Other than the longer cylinder, I cannot think of much difference, but if there is different heat treating or something, that is not apparent to the naked eye. Probably about the same to avoid different processes and higher costs, I would guess. You will note the magnum cylinders are longer, but the frame cutout is the same.
I think the magnums have thicker metal at the breech of the barrel as that part takes a pounding when the round is hammered into the back of the barrel. More susceptable to cracking and erosion in a magnum, there. I can't see much other evidence of a difference but I suspect the metallurgy of the cylinders and barrels was improved in the 50's as compared to the prewar guns. I think I would not bore out the cylinder for a magnum round in an older prewar or even pre 60's gun as it was proofed for .38s. You probably could reface the rear of the 38 barrel to admit a magnum length cylinder into the frame, but then you would have to rework the throat of the barrel. I think you might be getting at- what are the strengths of a late model 38 versus a late model 357 in the same frame size. Other than the longer cylinder, I cannot think of much difference, but if there is different heat treating or something, that is not apparent to the naked eye. Probably about the same to avoid different processes and higher costs, I would guess. You will note the magnum cylinders are longer, but the frame cutout is the same.
Last edited:
Sir William
New member
AFAIK, heat treating, recessed cylinders to support the case heads and a elongated cylinder. That was about it for the NYSP originals.
Sir William
New member
IIRC, frames to reduce flame cutting by gases, cylinders for strength and the hammer/firing pins so that the recoil didn't break them.