Originally Posted by
willie
Trooper is correct on all statements. About Colt barrels, people would write that the Colt barrel tapered slightly from rear to front. I never saw data backing the claim. However, one fact was documented. Instead of being .357 or .358, Colt .38 barrels were .354. I have no explanation. In the era of standard pressure lead bullets, this fact was no concern. They would not hold up well under the shooting and dry firing regimen of today's shooters. Yes, department armorers could keep issue guns running--theoretically. That day has passed of course. The Smith revolver is not necessarily stronger. It is, though, vastly simpler, has a fine double action, and is less fragile than the Colt. I won't say that the Colt is not as good. I won't say that it's obsolete. I do know that police departments ceased issuing Colt revolvers when they were still available. I think that if they were still on dealer shelves, many who now seek them would be complaining about Colt actions' idiosyncrasies and would be bitching like hell about Colt customer service.