Long Barrel .357 Mag Project

[cellar701]

I have a 10.5 inch heavy barrel in .357 (probably came off a .357 Maximum...) with a screw-attached hook-style front sight. And a couple of possible revolver frames: an early New Model .357 and an Old Model .357.

Has anyone done a project like this? I'm interested in the longer barrel revolvers, and this one would be pretty unique. I expect it to be an interesting shooter - but a handful to lug around...

Thanks for any input.

 

[BlackEye]

You have a lot of choices there. Besides the OM or NM , there are several choices for the grip frame. If you have a preference for a grip frame style, say Bisley for example, a NM might work well. Then there is the frame size itself. The OM has a smaller frame. Either way, your personal tastes would trump. Sounds like a fun project.

 

[Aggie01]

my understanding is that although the barrel threads are the same, the OM .357 need a smaller OD barrel. you would have to turn it down or relieve your ERH to use it on that gun.
However, if reprofiling, you could put a more serious taper on the whole thing and trim some weight.

 

[cellar701]

Yes, indeed on the barrel diameters: 0.747" for OM barrel and 0.780" on the long barrel where the barrels meet the frame.

I have a stainless SBH (round trigger guard) grip frame I'm considering using along with a super hammer, so I'm really leaning toward the larger frame NM.

I also have a large frame Vaquero I could use, but would need to modify for an adjustable rear sight...

 

[Bucks Owin]

Cool beans. I'm a big fan of "long toms" myself. Max velocity, max sight radius, max accuracy... :wink: 8)
As to carry, I used a western rig tied down above the knee either crossdraw or strong side. Yes, it's a long draw, easier done crossdraw, but I soon got used to it from either side, and being tied keeps it from flopping around while walking....

Result of practice with OM 10".44 FT:

 

[Hondo44]

Might as well go with the NM, sounds like you're all set up for parts. And no one can accuse you of trying to fake an OM 10". Also alternate grip frames will be more readily available if you change you're mind about the SS SBH.

One other consideration to think about: if you're going to sell the barrel from the donor gun. The 4 5/8" barrel may have slightly more resale value or resale market especially if you get a pre warning (pre '76) or newer gun with the warning on the bottom. But I suspect you'll want to buy the least expensive NM that comes along.

Sound like a fun project. Let us know how it progresses.

 

[EDK]

My suggestion would be a HUNTER grip frame and a SUPER BLACK HAWK hammer. Possibly a stainless steel ejector rod housing in standard or long length. I used DRAGOON grip frames for years, but have really come to appreciate either the HUNTER or BISLEY grip frames.

The gun will be heavy with the 10.5 inch barrel regardles. Go with the add-ons and the gun will recoil like a 22 with most 357 ammo/reloads. I had a 10.5 inch 44 SUPER and it was a pussycat on recoil..just clumsy to carry in the woods on foot or in-and-out of the truck on the farm.

I've kinda been toying with a project like this on a 357 Original Size VAQUERO. Good luck and keep us informed.

 

[Hondo44]

EDK,
Good idea; long steel ejector tube for full ejection of cases and all steel gun. I think he has the round guard SBH grip frame, a.k.a. Hunter style.

 

[cellar701]

Thanks all for your input and affirmation of what I want to do with it. I have all the parts - just need some time to do the work. I'll post some pics of the project as I put it together.