Originally Posted by
shooting on a shoestring
My 2 cents and 2 points:
First, not all Italian revolvers have the same metallurgy or specs. My FEELING is there was more variation in the earlier Italian revolvers. No scientific data to support it though. I would NOT extrapolate that just because one maker took an order from one distributor to make a run of 44 Magnum SAA clones, that all SAA clones have that metallurgy and heat treatment. I doubt they do. But, no data to support it.
Second, just because a revolver can keep from blowing up the first time it’s given a heavy load doesn’t mean the revolver will stand up to that for multiple heavy loads. If the cylinder is overly stressed, it will eventually fail. Maybe even with a lesser load after stress fractures have migrated. And of course frame stretching is how overly stressed revolvers most frequently display abuse.
I get that there’s no benefit in keeping pressure way below the capabilities of a particular revolver. But same is true for exceeding the capabilities. Problem is the only guidance is SAAMI specs, reloading manuals, people’s experience and worst of all…..opinions. I just expressed my opinion. No supporting data other than I own a some Italian revolvers, load for them and haven’t blown them up or shot them loose. Hope you do likewise.