Need advice on building a high-end revolver...

M

Molly

New member
I am planning on building a nice revolver somewhat like a PPC or Pin gun. Its going to have a Douglas slab-sided barrel, action job, Aristocrat rib, etc. The problem is that I can't decide between .357 and .38 Special however, for the base gun. I'm leaning toward a used S&W Model 10, which is a K framed .38 with fixed sights. I would go with .357, but I really only shoot .38s, and am looking for the best available accuracy. Any advice would be helpful. I am familiar with the ramifications of shooting .38s through .357 chambers .

Thanks
 
The model 10 (or 64) is a excellent foundation for your project. It was the most used frame for this purpose.
 
I have found that accuracy and velocity is reduced when .38 Specials are fired from Magnum chamber. If going to use .38s by all means start with a .38 Special platform.
 
If you are looking for rapid shot to shot recovery...

How bout a 38/44 Outdoorsman (.38 Special) N target frame.
Or N frame .357 Magnum. (Later the model 27.)

If you are going to base a gun on either of the above....tune and try it before going custom. Might be suprised. Most of them are far more accurate than most shooters.

Or....if serious about high end...
Have Korth build one to your specs. Should be under ten grand.

Sam
 
I would think that for the pin shooting aspect you would want to go with an eight shot N frame .357 cylinder. Cylinder should take full moon clips. I would still use 38 cases, but would load to heavy .357 specs including OAL. I guess the eight shot cylinder might be a problem in PPC, if your match rules only allow 6 in a reload, so you will need another cylinder.

Elliot
 
I'm not really shooting in Pin or PPC competitions, I just like the idea of a super-smooth and heavy 38 revolver with a really nice ribbed sight on it. Its mostly for the targe range, plinking, and squirrels. Thanks for the replies so far.
 
I just like the idea of a super-smooth and heavy 38 revolver with a really nice ribbed sight on it.
Click to expand...

In that case, consider the N-Frame Smith Model 28 "Highway Patrolman". Very accurate in both the 4 and 6" lengths.
20028128545370986158827.jpg

These can be had from $225.00 to $350.00 depending on vintage and condition.
 
" I'm not really shooting in Pin or PPC competitions, I just like the idea of a super-smooth and heavy 38 revolver with a really nice ribbed sight on it. Its mostly for the targe range, plinking, and squirrels. Thanks for the replies so far. "

Sounds like you need a Colt Python :D
 
Molly,

Most competitors start with a fixed sight K-frame. One of the reasons for that is the availability of competition speedloaders for that size cylinder. Around here, they tend to prefer a stainless steel platform. That would mean looking for a Model 64 or 65. I have never experienced a drop-off in accuracy when firing .38's in a .357. This is likely never to show up if the gun is not in a Ransom Rest.

Good luck.

Clemson
 
I ditto Joe's C & S suggestion

OR buy one for $500 to 600 off the auction boards. They appear frequently and quite a few are not used much. It appears folks enjoy having them built and then dumping them after a short period of time....dewey
 
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