Which model S&W

[Marine Sgt 2111]

I want to shoot .357 mags loaded with the 173gr Keith bullet crimped in the crimping groove. Which models of S&W revolvers have a long enough cylinder?
Thanks

[Bret4207]

The K and L frames I believe.

[Catshooter]

686, 586, 66, 19, 620, and possibly some of the newer 627s. Definatley no on the 27. Close, but no.


Cat

[FN in MT]

I use the #358446 which runs 160+ grs but crimps short enough to fit the shorter M-27/28 cylinders. It IS a PITA that those sweet 168 gr Keith slugs aren't useable in a mag case in the N frames. I've shot thousands of them in .38 cases, over 5.0 of Unique in M-19's and 66's. Great bullet.

FN in MT

[Dale53]

FN;
The Keith bullet 358429 works just fine in the Model 19 ("K" frame) and Models 686 & 586 ("L") frame. They are too long for the "N" frames.

The nifty Keith bullet was designed for the .38-44 before the advent of the .357 magnum. Use in the Model 27 requires crimping over the front band (I don't like that, either).

I'm lucky in that I have a couple of 686's and LIKE the Keith in that platform (the bullet works as designed).

However, if I had a Model 27 or 627 I would just have to use another bullet (my vote would go to the Lee 358-158-RF in a six cavity mould as I believe it will work - haven't tried it but would definitely check it out). I believe that it is a great design.

Dale53

[shotman]

you can use in the 27 if you load in 38 brass but you need to use bullseye

[Bret4207]

you can use in the 27 if you load in 38 brass but you need to use bullseye

I load nickle 38 brass with the 358429 with 2400, never had a problem and the nickle ID's the loads as 357 class ammo. Works for me.

[MtGun44]

Just remember - the Large framed (N) S&W has the small cylinder and it won't fit.

the medium(L) and SMALL framed (K) S&W has the long cyl and it will fit.

Makes perfect sense ------- NOT!

But it is true.

Works fine in my Security Six, too.

I have no idea about the .357 sized J framed guns. I'm thinking a 173 gr .357
Mag load in one of these would be safe but memorable.


Bill

[9.3X62AL]

"Safe, but memorable." Well put! Our duty loads (W-W 158 grain JHP/357s) were about as much revolver fun as I care to enjoy, and without Pachmayr Compacs or Hogue neoprenes it ain't happening.