March 2009

The .327 Federal Magnum is one of the finest revolver cartridges to come down the road in a good while. K-frame Smith & Wesson revolvers area wonderful vehicle for the cartridge. However, building a .327 (or any other small-bore) takes some part scrounging at this time since Smith & Wesson no longer has a blue parts from the K22/M17.

If you wish to build a blue gun, you will have to scare up a barrel and cylinder (we occasionally have these parts). M17 or M48 parts will work fine. You will also need either an M14 or M15, depending on the vintage K22 or M17/M48 barrel you find. The early skinny-rib barrels work best with the M15; late taper-rib or target style barrels work best with the M14.

At this writing, Smith & Wesson still has M617 barrels and cylinders so we can procure these and build stainless guns without trouble. Since the available M617 barrels are full-underlug, target-style barrels, the only suitable gun for building is the M66 .357 Mag. The M67 .38 Special receiver face is not deep enough to fit the M617 barrel without an unsightly gap at the bottom and back of the underlug.

Here is a typical labor and parts breakdown for construction:

Labor:

1.) Install cylinder, setting endfloat, headspace and carry-up timing...$125
2.) Chamber to .327 cal...$195
3.) Install barrel, turning up and setting barrel gap, cutting the forcing cone and fitting the ejector rod/front bolt...$125
4.) Rebore to .311 cal...$175, including crown.
5.) Remark barrel as to caliber..$95; matching S&W mark, add $50.
6.) Tune action...$175
7.) Shoot for regulation...$75. Please bear in mind that we may have to pin in a taller front sight blade in ordre to achieve proper elevation...from $75.
8.) Reblue blue gun....about $150, depending on condtion.
9.) Occasionally, there are small, incendetal part/labor expenses.

Parts:

1.) M617 cylinder assembly...$123.79
2.) M617 barrels, 4, 6 and 8 3/8 in. lengths, from $140.94 to $212.03
3.) Fancy checkered french walnut grips from Keith Brown installed are between $250--$295 depending on style.

Blue gun parts are usually a bit less in price but are increasingly difficult to find. Please note also we can supply these guns with an extra fitted cylinder in .32-20, if desired. Other modifications are available; please see the 'Options' list.

While building a K-frame S&W can take some treasure hunting, the result is well worth the effort. Feel free to get in touch with any questions or recommendations.