Hold on cowboys! I didn't say junk! And ain't talking K frames either.
Up until 1988 (pre 29-3 and 629-2), Smith & Wessons were taking a pounding at the silhouette range. Under a constant hammering of full power loads, cylinders were unlocking and turning backwards, parts were breaking, actions were wearing prematurely and guns were going out of time. It's no big secret! That is were the term came from, that S&W were weak guns. After 1988, S&W addressed the problems by strengthening the yoke and cylinder crane and by lengthening the cylinder notch to prevent jumping. Full retrofits were complete on models 29-5 and 629-4 and beyond.
In the modern construction of a Smith & Wesson revolver, pinned and recessed barrels are unnecessary, add cost and do nothing. It is useless. They are beautiful guns and the finish quality would be cost prohibitive today, but that in no way makes them better or stronger guns. Ask any Ruger guy that (ugliest guns around, but strong as heck!).
Robert