size difference: "K" vs "L"

J

Jim PHL

New member
I hope to purchase a .357 revolver soon. I am considering several options. What I end up with may come down to the best deal in the case once I actually have cash in hand but I've pretty much boiled it down to the above. I am curious as to the actual differences between them as far as size/weight? I have heard over and over that the K-frames have the best 'feel' and handling characteristics but have also read on the boards that the grip size is virtually the same on the K's as the L's. If the grip is the same, where is the difference? Is the frame itself larger? heavier? Is it the cylinder that is different? Can someone clear this up? I have fired a few Model 10's and like the feel of the K but will buy a .357. I expect to handle them both for myself before making a decision but am looking for opinions. I will shoot mostly .38's and carry .357's so wear and tear won't be an issue.

Thanks,
Jim
 
Upon "proof reading": Maybe I should narrow down a bit?
I mentioned carry but this won't be primarily a carry gun, though it may be carried on occasion. It will definitely be a 2-1/2", 3" or 4" and most likely a 13/65; 19/66; 586/686; or GP100. Since I asked specifically about the "K" vs. "L", where does the GP fit in?
 
I have both a S&W model 10 & a model 686. The model 10 is my absolute favorite handgun. The 686 has a larger & heavier frame than the model 10.
As for the GP100, I have no hands on experience with it, but believe it is similar to a 686, maybe slightly lighter.
 
I have a SW 19 2 3/4, SW 65 3 in and have had GP100 and 686 4 inch. I like the K frame the most, just balences better for me. I use mine in the same manner you discribed. I'm in the process of purchasing a 19-3, 4 inch which might be used for IDPA now that there is a new revolver classification. If you are going to carry, the K frame makes the most sense. If it's just a range gun, the 686 is a good chooice. Liked the GP100, brute strong, just not as smooth as my smiths IMHO.
 
The L is a heavier frame as is the Ruger. Grip size of the L and the K frame guns is identical. Grips themselves interchange. The L is big and strong, the Ruger is big and heavy, and the K is svelte.

Hold and heft both the "L" and the "K" framed guns if you can. In my opinion, a Ruger double action is.......sturdy. It is a cast frame which has to be big to be strong. If guns were girls, the Ruger double action would be the girl on the track team who put the shot. The K-frame would be the cheerleader and the L-frame would be the prom queen.

Now donning Nomex underwear........

Clemson :D
 
The L-frame is larger in the yoke area to beef up the weakness of the K-frame. Other than that they are identical, except for the barrel on most models.
I have no idea where the Ruger fits in, but I would imagine it would be with the L-frame or a little larger as the investment casting is bulkier than forgings.
 
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