Shooting Plus P out of an Older Model 10 Revolver

Can you shoot Plus P ammo out of older S&W revolvers? Yes and no. There is a lot of debate about the changes in ammo pressure ratings and supposedly standard ammo pressures were scaled down during the 1960’s for .38 special. Let’s err on the side of caution, though.
As a general rule, anything older than post WWII, stay with 158 grain lead round nose with a pressure rating of less than 800 ft. per second due to the age of the gun and the metallurgy from that time. Post WWII handguns I would follow that general advice, except you could probably run some higher velocity ammo, but not Plus P.
After the designation of the numbers in 1957, you would probably be safe in shooting Plus P ammo in limited amounts, but running a lot of Plus P ammo could crack the forcing cone. I would also stay away from the extremely high pressure Plus P some companies make. More recent revolvers that are specifically labeled for Plus P should be fine.
Here is a good video by David Drake on shooting Plus P ammo through older .38 revolvers. • Shooting plus P ammo i...
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[@LionquestFitness]

Can you shoot Plus P ammo out of older S&W revolvers? Yes and no. There is a lot of debate about the changes in ammo pressure ratings and supposedly standard ammo pressures were scaled down during the 1960’s for .38 special. Let’s err on the side of caution, though. As a general rule, anything older than post WWII, stay with 158 grain lead round nose with a pressure rating of less than 800 ft. per second due to the age of the gun and the metallurgy from that time. Post WWII handguns I would follow that general advice, except you could probably run some higher velocity ammo, but not Plus P. After the designation of the numbers in 1957, you would probably be safe in shooting Plus P ammo in limited amounts, but running a lot of Plus P ammo could crack the forcing cone. I would also stay away from the extremely high pressure Plus P some companies make. More recent revolvers that are specifically labeled for Plus P should be fine. Here is a good video by David Drake on shooting Plus P ammo through older .38 revolvers. kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6fHgmB-hsSXjaM

[@LionquestFitness]

@jeff lockaby Hi Jeff. Thanks for coming by today! BTW - I notice S&W finishes aren't always consistent to the time period and you're probably right about an overseas contract.

[@LionquestFitness]

@jeff lockaby That's for sure Jeff.

[@robtans5042]

I carried revolvers from 81 to 89 as a police. I still got several ive got one that was from royal hong kong police with the pencil bbl shot thousands of rounds + p and all got an old m&p 6 in same thing you aint gona hurt one of they will be ok. I was an officer from 81 to 17 loved the revolvers

[@LionquestFitness]

@@robtans5042 Thanks for sharing Robbie!

[@robtans5042]

@@LionquestFitness Ive had several different smiths through the years. Shot the crap out of them. Never had not trouble with them. That old mod10-7 from hong kong I got quiet some time ago for o lady house gun. I dont reckon its ever been taken care of but its bout indestructable. I dont carry revolvers anymore but I still shoot them. Anyhow merry christmas and have a better 21

[@random_citizen9191]

What a beautiful revolver! The classics can't be beat!

[@MitchC357]

I worked as a police officer in the 80s and had a 10-8 HB 4 inch revolver. Shot thousands and I mean thousands of plus P as it was the duty ammo. No problem whatsoever with the forcing cone or any other problem. Lockup was tight and no problems. Usually used 125+p sjhp rounds. I was a firearms instructor and shot my gun sometimes every day.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks for the input. I can remember carrying Plus P, the old 158 grain so called New York Load, but we shot wadcutters for qualification. So we rarely shot the plus P. Only at the end of the year when we used our carry ammo for practice.

[@elblancobasura]

Holy mackerel, what a condition on that -8. Thanks for the great video and history.

[@LionquestFitness]

It had been owned by someone who had worked at the S&W factory back then. As far as I could tell, it had never been shot outside of the factory. It even came with two old boxes of .38.

[@kylewood8327]

Great video and info on one of my favorite S&W’s. I traded for a 10-5 4 inch pencil barrel version with box and manual some years back now. It’s also in fantastic shape and has a very tight lockup. It hasn’t been shot much either.

[@petea4895]

Love the old S&W revolvers, and the way you present them. Thanks for making your videos.

[@Graydog-sx6le]

I do love revolvers. Thanks for the good video. The model 10 was such a staple in its time. My grandfather had one in a drawer in his bedroom. I remember seeing it when I was little. As a child I loved it and boy did it feel heavy. I don’t t own one right this minute. I just got into revolvers a year or two ago and have picked up some but just haven’t found the model 10 that spoke to me.

[@LionquestFitness]

LOL - you'll know it when you see it.

[@SierraBravo347]

The S&W in my profile pic is a model 10-5 that was made in '74, was shot once, and lived in a gun safe until I purchased it last November 2019. Mine is a 2" roundbutt model, and next to the model 28-2 I picked up around the same time, is probably my favorite revolver I own right now.

[@nutthrower4415]

I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your channel. Thank you 👍

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you for coming by today and commenting.

[@mikeshuler577]

Love your videos, I watch them over and over. Thanks 😊

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks for watching Mike.

[@aslanifaramarz6291]

Good shooting. Thanks for the info. I have shot about 200 rounds of 38+plus P out of my old taurus 38 special model 10 with no issues so far.

[@YellowHammer26]

Love your revolvers and great advice also. It's always tempting to shoot +p in my older 38's but I try to stay away from it except for the ones that say they are rated for +p.

[@LionquestFitness]

As I mentioned earlier, a 158 grain semi wadcutter with a hollow point still works fine for self defense.

[@johnnorman7708]

@@LionquestFitness I am convinced that the 158 gr SWCHP is an incredibly underappreciated bullet. As made by Hornady and Speer, this type bullet is almost perfect for .38 Special. @750-900 FPS it is serious medicine as a projectile. Penetrates and expands a bit even at the low end.

[@liberaceboiithe3rd5]

Beautiful pistol, love the review!

[@wesleysmith4613]

Great video! Love these revolvers as I have a decent 10-6 and hope to pickup a model 15 and 19 eventually.

[@LionquestFitness]

The Model 15 is another favorite of mine. I really would like to get my hands on a Model 19 though.

[@sonnygunz9207]

I love S&W revolvers. I own at least a dozen and carry one every day. I rarely shoot +p from my vintage J & K frame .38spl’s. Great video. Thanks.

[@LionquestFitness]

For the older S&W's a 158 grain semi wadcutter in hollow point works just fine.

[@RichardThomas-lu6ej]

Excellent video. Thanks for sharing.

[@julian1221]

Cracked forcing cones was also a rare but present situation with early Model 19's fed a steady diet of .357's.

[@joep4235]

just a gorgeous revolver Greg !!!! those grips are fantastic!! interesting to watch the difference between +p and standard too... almost no muzzle flip on either, but a giant flash with the +p... thanks so much for the vid !

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Joe. You know, there isn't that much recoil between the two. I was using 158 grain, low pressure wadcutters vs. 125 grain Remington Plus P, which is my preferred training and carry round. But, I'm having to be sparring with it now days.

[@joep4235]

wow do I get that! my ccw expires this month ( and in Cal, you do NOT let it expire), so I had to go the range and get some practice in ... there was no 9mm, no 38 , and no 357 !!! I mean NONE ! Fortunately, I reload, and had brought some practice rounds. For my CCW test, I loaded some .38 special for my LCR with 3.5 grains of Unique... I think i could have thrown the bullets faster than i shot them, but I wasn't going to waste powder on that test. The instructors were smiling when i was shooting (so I guess they knew what I was up to), but I was re-certified for another 2 years so hurrah ! ha ha ha

[@LionquestFitness]

@@joep4235 LOL - they know the drill. You passed the test and that is all that matters. Why set yourself up for the potential for failure?

[@bigal2696]

Just a great video. Thank you. I always enjoy the history. And I always enjoy revolvers. And...I enjoy standard pressure 38's in my old Colt Diamondback.

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Al! Where I like Plus P, the 158 grain semi wadcutter with a hollow point is still a very capable self defense round.

[@CarolinaRimfire]

I'm glad I found this video of yours, Greg. I just found an old Smith pre model 15. From my research, it seems to be a 1955/1956 model. I intended to fire only standard pressure 158gr lrn through it, but I wasn't sure. Thanks for the video, even though this one is fairly old!

[@LionquestFitness]

For that year I'd stick to the standard pressure 158 grain ammo. I watched a Gun Sam video where he was testing that round from a four, three and two inch revolver. They were consistent with good penetration.

[@edwardpetty5401]

They are all great revolvers. My M&P was manufactured 1922. No + P for it. Great video!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Edward!

[@julian1221]

Cracked forcing cones was also an issue with a few Model 19's fed a steady diet of .357's.

[@totizabayle377]

I enjoyed your shooting that I watched your video for the third time. For home defense I use .38 special plus p for my K and L frame SW revolvers. Each member of the family has a supply of ear plugs.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you. There are several videos by Mixup98, Sootch00, Hickok45 and others that I enjoy watching over and over again. LOL - especially if they feature snubbie revolvers.

[@tomcarr4630]

Great to see you back, Greg! Love my 10-12.

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Tom - had to take an absence due to the recent passing of my mom. Also, I'm working harder at producing more quality work with my limited means and equipment. Sometimes it takes up to two or three weeks to get things right - everything from lighting, background noise, my delivery and diction, to seemingly insignificant things like what color I' m wearing. With the wrong lighting it keeps the gun from being seen, which is the star of the show. I'll film a video, look at it, and say nope, not this time. So it is back to the drawing board. Too, and this is the most important part - I have to come up with something interesting to talk about.

[@tomcarr4630]

Lionquest Fitness I am sincerely sorry for your loss, Greg. Always enjoy and appreciate your videos!

[@LionquestFitness]

@@tomcarr4630 Thank you very much Tom.

[@MrZlooze]

Excellent episode!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you.

[@totizabayle377]

My very first handgun in stainless steel version, the model 64-1. I have 14 handguns yet, it still my favorite go to hanggun for home defense. The model 15-3 , 686 plus 357, and 36 no dash could hardly compare it's trigger action..

[@invisibletosociety8338]

Wow, that is a beautiful revolver. Awesome

[@rustynail246]

Thank you for the very informative video.

[@LionquestFitness]

You're welcome.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

Another great vid Greg. Thanks! I watched this previously but I don't think I left a comment. I just purchased a 1948 (?) Hand Ejector 38 Special (marked on right side of barrel). It looks like it was probably a LE piece because of the wear as you mentioned. It's a 5" model - no model number on the crane and just "Made in U.S.A." stamped on the right side of the frame front. That's what puts it 1948 or maybe a bit earlier - the grips are the same as your 1950 production but have a diamond around the screw hole - so just before yours. Also the front sight is a half moon and the hammer has a bit of a drop to the end - which I think is also indicating earlier production. And as to loadings - given that you can stay within standard pressures and still get over 900 fps with a hard cast 158 gr LSWC, I see no need really for +P. That's with Alliant Power Pistol btw. I'm not going to be carrying it for self defense... but that bullet/velocity would do just fine if I did - though it would be almost guaranteed to over penetrate... a soft LSWCHP would be much better. Happy New Year 2024!

[@LionquestFitness]

There should be a serial number on the butt. The forum at www.smithandwessonforums.com/forums/ has been very helpful in the past with helping me to date various older revolvers. Sounds like a very good find. Except for the diamond grips, which were common for the civilian market, it sounds like a WWII military issue.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

@@LionquestFitness yes it's S 1910XXX and I can't find any reference to that ... but the markings and features put it at 1948 or earlier... but not too much earlier

[@lylesmith5079]

Very informative. Thanks

[@totizabayle377]

That's a beautiful revolver. I have a model 64 - 1 in almost pristine condition , and is my go to gun among my collection.

[@LionquestFitness]

My 64 is a little more recent but my favorite!

[@revolverdon]

Greg, Great enjoyable as always. "Revolverdon" need I say more !

[@LionquestFitness]

LOL - I love that name!

[@admiralspaceship2593]

Thanks for the info I am picking up a Smith & Wesson model 15-4 tomorrow and I will only be shooting standard pressure ammunition out of it.

[@chefboy2160]

Beautiful revolvers and nice shooting to boot. Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend...…

[@LionquestFitness]

You do the same Doug!

[@garageguy879]

Another excellent video Greg.Those older Smith's are well worth every penny.

[@LionquestFitness]

Amen to that Mark!

[@HGates-hl4eq]

My first handgun I'd ever owned. Still one of my favorites. 👍

[@LionquestFitness]

Mine too!

[@ArizonaGhostriders]

Wow! Very attractive, accurate, and stout revolver. Thanks for showing us, Greg!

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Santee! Glad to see you here today. I've been on the go today and haven't had a chance to see what the Arizona Ghostriders are up to. Hopefully later this evening.

[@ArizonaGhostriders]

@@LionquestFitness Thanks, Greg!

[@thealsatian4232]

Good morning my friend! I do love a little K frame magic.

[@LionquestFitness]

Good morning! Good to hear from Texas folks this morning!

[@500mos]

That is a nice model 10 your shootin. I have never warmed up to the new ones. A nice little collection you have there.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you!

[@bcpowrhse]

Great video Greg. Beautiful wheel guns.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you Brian!

[@thewolfhunter]

Great video,Very informative. When I was a rookie L.E.O. I carried a S&W Model 681 .357 Magnum. I received Top Gun in my firearms instructor class with my 681... Our carry load was Winchester .38 apl. 158gr.+ LSWCHP,The old FBI load..Now retired , I have my C&R and I'm waiting on a S&W Model 10 and three Colt Police Positives,two in .38spl. and one in .32 Long all are C&R guns..I will be doing a unboxing video on my KZbin channel. Now I know the S&W will not have a barrel.Im going to get a 4" bull barrel and cut it down to a 3" barrel.getting a 3" bull barrel is almost impossible to get.. Again thank for the information on the Model 10.

[@LionquestFitness]

I'll be looking forward to that unboxing.

[@bryanmartin2271]

Very informative and well said

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you Bryan!

[@Me2Lancer]

Thanks for the information and history lesson, Greg! Great shooting.

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Rich!

[@Me2Lancer]

@@LionquestFitness Hey, this is a revolver day for me today, carrying a Taurus Tracker 627 4" barrel with 38 Special +P.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@Me2Lancer I betcha that Tracker shoots Plus P like you were fluffing a pillow and I bet you get those shots on target. Good choice.

[@Me2Lancer]

@@LionquestFitness You are spot on. Recoil is very mild and I feel that 38 Special +P has much lower risk of overpenetration in a residential neighborhood vs .357 Magnum.

[@DennisRichardH]

Nice! I pickeup up at 10-8 police trade in that was used in Europe and then exported back here. Still has most of the blueing but has clear wear signs. I still haven’t shot it but intend to soon. Thanks!

[@PUJARTIAGO77]

Beautiful classic

[@NukeCult666]

Nice combat roll! 🤣 10 pts for trying. Nice shooting beautiful pistols . Good vid 👍

[@myrtlebeachwolfman7493]

Good video Gregg . Informative. Just got my first Smith revolver model 629 no dash appears in decent condition. Heard the newer ones are stronger. I like the classic look. It's pinned and rec

[@LionquestFitness]

Good find

[@3Pillers]

Stunt? I thought that was a warm up flexibility exercise and drill. You have a really nice collection of S&W revolvers there. Great info, great shooting, thanks for posting. GB

[@LionquestFitness]

LOL - just glad this very soon to be 60 year old carcass can still move around a bit. On a serious note, I haven't practiced falling and rolling in quite a while and need to start again. As we've discussed many a time, mobility is so important as we age.

[@3Pillers]

@@LionquestFitness A former Green Beret, Massachusetts police officer (retired) and martial arts instructor that moved to my area told me a very funny story about coming home on a cold and icy day in MA carrying a bottle of his favorite beverage. He slipped on the ice, fell, (concrete sidewalk) and was so thrilled that he was able to fall and not break the bottle. He was also happy that he was able to fall with out getting injured. He would tell the story to emphasize the importance of learning how to fall. Good luck on turning 60 and arriving in good shape. I’m knocking on 70, less than a year!

[@LionquestFitness]

@@3Pillers Being able to fall saved me a broken neck some years back when I slipped on a wooden bridge across a creek on a mountain trail. I took a 10 foot fall with a back pack, but was able to shift my weight and land on my back. Statistically, falls create a very high percentage of injuries and deaths in America, so I concur. It is a very valuable skill to learn.

[@totizabayle377]

@@LionquestFitness You hit it on the nail. I am past 70 that I truly appreciate the meaning of mobility. When I see you roll and fall, reminds me of my younger days. I was 68 when I finally stopped hard pick-up basketball. You strike as a true warrior..

[@LionquestFitness]

@@totizabayle377 Thank you.

[@Tex_I_Can]

Love the old S&W revolvers. You have a fine collection! In the early 80's my dad was carrying a 686 as his service revolver.

[@LionquestFitness]

You know, I need to get a 686. Currently I don't have a full size .357.

[@Tex_I_Can]

@@LionquestFitness There are a lot of stunning old wheel guns, but for me the 686 is the one. I think part of it is because my dad way hero.

[@jamesshuler4703]

@@LionquestFitness you will love a 686 . great shooter....may the Lord bless...

[@Jerry-Parker]

Very Nice collection !👍

[@thinman8621]

Good information. Thank you.

[@xtreme4stringbass]

I suspect the forcing cone cracking was from lead accumulation more so than powder erosion or pressure. Respectfully. Thank you for your service.

[@LionquestFitness]

That is always a possibility.

[@scubaguy007]

That was a good video. I love my old S&W revolvers. I have a 19-3 and a 29-2, both are 4" and I really enjoy shooting them. I like the grips on that first nickel gun you showed. I think it was nickel, but I’ve seen some old stainless that polished that bright. Are those Alamont grips? I see the medallions so it’s hard to know if they are S&W or Alamont. At least for me it’s hard to know. That’s why I watch you know it all’s, to learn stuff. 😉 I am just kidding but I have learned a great deal watching your videos. So thank you.

[@LionquestFitness]

Originally it was a parkerized finish, but had the barrel cut down and nickeled after WWII. The grips I found on ebay and come from Thailand.

[@SheepDog44]

Love the old school smith's what classics. I just recently purchased and ole model 36 chiefs special with the original wood grips (blued) it checked back to 1974. I absolutely love this 38 it's in excellent condition for being so old.

[@LionquestFitness]

Those old Smiths if taken care of can last many a decade.

[@ThecrazyScotsman]

Excellent video my friend some beautiful examples you have there, the lock up is solid for as much as that has been shot, I have always said most Smith's will handle the plus p ok it is simply don't feed it a steady diet of it same with full house power magnum loads on the 29s they'll take it but a steady diet is not recommended

[@LionquestFitness]

Hard on the ears and the hands as well!

[@thewolfhunter]

I have a S&W Model 10 (Circa 1977). When I shoot +P ammo through it, It will lock up tighter than a tick.Cylinder freezes up,cannot get the cylinder To turn or swing out..Now keeping the revolver pointed down range and after moving the cylinder,left to right,it will eventually allow me to open the cylinder...Now it only does it on +P ammo and not with regular range fair ammo,Lead or FMJ..Any suggestions as to the issue.?

[@LionquestFitness]

I don't know. Plus P ammo comes in a wide variety of pressures. From what you describes it sounds like you may be using a round with a longer casing and high pressure; almost a magnum round. Regular pressure, lead, 158 grain semi-wadcutters still work well for self defense.

[@drchadf]

What is your opinion on Charter Arms revolvers? Specifically the Professional model in .32 H&R magnum? The 7 shot capacity and nitride finish make it appealing for carry. Thank you for your channel! It is very informative.

[@LionquestFitness]

I've never shot or handled one. Kevin McCloskey of the USCCA, who I respect, helped develop the gun and was recommending it through the USCCA channel and through their magazine. .32 H&R seems to be a very potent round for self defense. On the negative side I have been told that on the gun forums there have been chat about problems with the gun. So, it's a gun I am interested in, but I am waiting for more feedback on KZbin or other places. Charter hasn't had the best reputation over the years, and as a purely American company, I would like them to come out with a game changer.

[@MPGunther1]

And, nothing like a vintage blued S&W, nice piece greg

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Gunther. I picked that up for my son-in-law who is like a son to me. For my son I found a vintage Combat Masterpiece, the precursor to the Model 15. I want to pass on my love for classic firearms.

[@gunsmackamigos1159]

Hi Greg! Wow! I love all your revolvers, and that 1901 looks awesome. And that 10-8 is a beauty!!! Great info as usual from you. Thank you for all the wonderful "classes"!

[@LionquestFitness]

I sincerely appreciate that compadre.

[@permanenceaesthetic6545]

How timely of a video! I just picked up an absolutely gorgeous Model 10-8 a few days ago. Been thinking on the +P dilemma for a while now... By the way, I bought it off of Gunbroker. They have a whole mess of them on there if you’re interested - all police trade in models. They have 10-6s, 10-8s, and 10-10s. Even came with two speed loaders and a pouch for them, as well as the original heavy-duty thumb-break holster the cop wore. Snagged it all for $350.00 out the door!

[@LionquestFitness]

Now that was a great deal!

[@JoshBenware]

You always have the nicest revolvers. Great information! I have to go with stainless revolvers, cause I scratch them up a lot. I gotta have something I can pretty up with a tub of polish 😅

[@LionquestFitness]

Nothing wrong with that! Glad you stopped by today. I was wondering how you were doing. LOL - I started to wear a tank shirt in your honor for this video, but I'm not quite as trim and fit as you are.

[@JoshBenware]

@@LionquestFitness you're too kind, but, I know you just didnt want to put me to shame 😁

[@mikefiaschetti7544]

I’ve used the model 64 at Brink’s armored car when I was messenger. Was very fond of that pistol, I’m purchasing a model 10-8 and says the barrel was made in 1987. Does this mean anything significant? Thanks Mike Fiaschetti

[@LionquestFitness]

Sounds like it could have had a barrel replacement. That could have been from a cracked forcing cone. On the other hand the series dash 8 ran from 1977 to 1988, so 1987 could be the year the gun was made.

[@joshuakaeble7810]

You had me at Maestro :P

[@randyfranco9804]

Had my eyes on a model 10, Beautiful piece. How do you keep up on maintenance with a blued finish? Heard they are much more susceptible to rusting?.. I’m out in PNW and looking for the help I can get to just pull the trigger and buy one!! Thank you! Love the content

[@LionquestFitness]

If you are going to carry a blued gun you need to wipe it down after carrying it, especially if you live in a humid climate. Periodically you need to rub a very light coat of oil over the gun.

[@soyelmasguapo]

When the use of microfusion (MIM) in the manufacture of firearms was generally extended by weapon manufacturers since the early 1970s, and light aluminum alloy frames became popular, they observed that although They were construction techniques that managed to make firearms cheaper and reduce production times. They had certain material weaknesses that caused some parts to suffer premature fractures, cracks and wear. As it still had to spend a lot of time improving the MIM alloys and metallurgical techniques, the "gun industry lobby" managed to make a "high handed act" and in 1972 the Permanent International Commission on Firearms Testing and the SAAMI, which is who internationally establishes the approvals for cartridges, reduced the maximum pressure values ​​that these ammunition were capable of developing. In fact, the standard of the previous ammunition was higher to the point of being practically what is known today as "+P" (depending on the manufacturer's values) that were created for the needs of users, such as law enforcement, security professionals, armed forces, etc., who needed "full power" ammunition but with the tagline of not recommending at all the use of "+P" ammunition to avoid responsibilities in the after-sale for the deterioration of the weapons in their sales civilians under warranty. There are now many ammunitions with very powerful general purpose loads for use with any weapon thanks to metallurgical improvements and MIM process engineering by manufacturers (some more than others, as always). The fact is that the recurring question always arises whether a classic model from the "PRE-MIM" era (produced with classic forging and machining techniques) can regularly use "+P" ammunition. To answer this, it must be taken into account that for each of the ammunition manufacturers "+P" does not mean "exactly the same" and that in general, many of those ammunition are very close to the previous pressure values ​​for that cartridge. , and for which those weapons were designed. If you get one of those weapons in almost unused condition since many people almost never shoot their weapons and end up sleeping in a nightstand drawer for years, they are inherited, and if they exist and sometimes appear on the market, it could be used "+P" ammunition with values ​​close to those of the original standard without major concerns (do not forget that "+P" is not always the same for each manufacturer, and that is why no one undertakes to categorically say if that type of ammunition can be used in previous weapons due to the risk of a lawsuit from civilians). If we are talking about weapons whose use and history is unknown, we do not know the stress accumulated by the weapon and which generally cannot be observed with the naked eye, out of prudence I would not use "+P". If we are also talking about original models of a certain historical value for which it may even be difficult to obtain a replacement, we must be cautious and in addition to shooting it very sporadically, use the softest loads available for that cartridge. In short, use "+P" ammunition that most closely matches the original standard values ​​of the "pre-mim" era and be aware of the condition of your weapon. Regards!

[@jacspring5459]

Hey Greg, another great vid - I went back in time a bit here. This is my work account so you probably don't recognize me.. but I watch and post on your vids often from my other alias account. You might check Alliant Power Pistol propellant - a maximum standard pressure load will produce 900 - 950 fps with a lead swc bullet (shows 6" barrel). Standard pressure. This load is also very accurate and shoots to point of aim at 15 yards from my 1947, 5" hand ejector. Reference Speer reloading manual #14.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks for the tip.

[@davidjakiela9553]

What about the victory model 38's from WW2. Other than a parkarzed finish is there any difference between them and a standard model 10 of the time ?

[@LionquestFitness]

Good question, and I'll give you you my take. First off, there is a reason modern S&W and Taurus revolvers have reinforced frames and shorter forcing cones. So what about guns made after the number designations? as a general rule, you don't make a habit out of shooting very hot ammo continuously out of guns from the late fifties, sixties, seventies and eighties. Prior to then, I would use only standard pressured round. I have what is called a "lend lease" model that was a 1941 pre-victory; also a 1950 pre-model 10. I would be very leery of shooting anything more than standard ammo out of either of them due to the age and to the design strength. People forget that at one time, it wasn't uncommon for a forcing cone to crack after heavy use. Standard .38 ammo has gotten short shrift over the last two decades, but a well placed shot is a well placed shot. In my older S&W revolvers, some of which I CWC, I mostly utilize a 158 grain semi wad-cutter with a hollow point made by Underwood.

[@Desperado3248]

Most forcing cone cracks in k frame S&W revolvers, both 38 and 357 comes from lighter weight bullets like 125. They do not seal the area around the forcing cone like a plus p lead 158 and result in flame cutting of the cone and eventual cracking. I usually shoot 158 cast lead reloads around 900 fps , just below plus p, and carry either standard or plus p Buffalo Bore lhp. The standard pressure round gives you around 850 fps from a 2 inch barrel and around 925 to 950 from a 4 incher. The plus o gives 1025 fps from a 2 inch barrel and over 1100 fps from a 4 . More than adequate

[@dane5896]

My Father carried one on duty for most of his career. The first gun that I ever fired. 👍

[@onedirection3510]

Have you ever noticed the protruding small screw on the lower center portion of the grip? It looks like it would be physically irritating to the hand, especially after many rounds. I’m guessing a Hogue grip or Altamont or whatever would take care of that, but the way you have the original grip I wonder about that. It’s the same on the modern production from the photos I see on Smith & Wesson website . I’m looking at the Model 10,19,586,686(6 round not plus) Any comparative insight would be greatly appreciated!

[@LionquestFitness]

It has never bothered me, so I can't offer much insight, but I'm sure a lot depends on the size and shape of the individual hand.

[@joelvalle9168]

Great video! Nice to see that you are also a lefty!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Joel! It looks my youngest granddaughter, now 2, is also going to be a lefty. It is going to be great fun teaching her to shoot!

[@VitoBb1978]

Greg thanks for the information, my model 15-3 was made back in 1975 and the barrel is pinned in, so I only feed it standard pressure 38 special ammunition, which becoming hard to find.

[@LionquestFitness]

Me and you both. Try Georgia Ammunition online. I've been able to get semi-wadcutters to practice with from them.

[@cleondubois1270]

Good shootin, good history & good advice accompanied with some good "sippin" music.

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Cleon! Gotta be laid back sometimes!

[@cleondubois1270]

@@LionquestFitness Was worried about you.....Thought you had retired to your chalet in the Swiss Alps.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@cleondubois1270 Nah, give me a cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains. But seriously, my mom went into hospice and passed away recently after a long bout with ill health, and I've been tied up with that. I would have liked to have seen her around for many years more, but after two strokes on top of all her other health problems; I didn't want to see her suffer any more, and being one of those pesky faith people, I know she is in a better place and I'll see her again one day.

[@borobei]

Would using plus p ammo on a 4 or 6 inch barrel provide more stoppage power and be better for home defense?

[@LionquestFitness]

You should get more velocity out of a four or six inch barrel with plus P or standard ammunition. The longer barrel gives the powder more time to burn. With a shorter barrel you lose velocity.

[@jonathanhorne6503]

My model 10-6 is chambered in 357 magnum from the factory. Are there issues with these 10-6 with cracked forcing cones using +P and 357 mag?

[@LionquestFitness]

You might need to take that gun to a Smith to be examined. Model 10's aren't chambered for .357.

[@davezinetti666]

Back during the 60s and 70s, standard loads were +p loads. +p loads nowadays are watered down, same as stanard loads today.

[@davezinetti666]

Thanks

[@IAF7]

My was made in 1977 great trigger, accuracy and handling +P , 12rounds 147 hydra shock, 12rounds 110 jhp treasury very well. Yes +P+ ammo Great video. The majority of shooting has been made with 158 gr Lead ball and LHP standard and +P. P P.R. 👮‍♂️ 👉👍👈🖖

[@cobra.3886]

Awesome video .

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you.

[@deadpresident78]

my .38 dp is a +P. I want to know if my K frame will shoot a mild .357 mag?

[@LionquestFitness]

I wouldn't try.

[@fbweaver63]

great music, great shooting, great video, and great collection of smith & wesson revolvers. there was also a lot of intereesting htstory and other information in the video. pretty nimble for an old man, too. that's a beautiful model 10. you make me want a smith & wesson. all i have are rugers, a couple of tauri, and a llama and an astra. i do have my grandfather's colt police positive in 32. it's nice but the finish isn't. you must have a few 38 rounds stashed as they are some of the hardest to come by here in central nc as the dealers are pushing revolvers on the hordes of women rushing to buy their first handgun.

[@LionquestFitness]

Well, S&W, in my opinion, made the most beautiful revolvers back in the day. As for ammo, I can't shoot the same ammo I carry anymore because it is very hard to find the 125 grain Remington Plus P, so I've got several hundred rounds squirreled away. For practice I have to scour around and shoot the kind of ammo I wouldn't have touched with a ten foot pole. LOL - I did pass up some PPU the other day.

[@oldschoolcop8568]

I love this revolver! 😍 first hand gun I ever shot a age 12.

[@LionquestFitness]

You've been there and done that and more. The Model 10 was the first handgun I bought and my first duty carry. It has been a favorite for many years. Thanks for dropping in this morning.

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

Interesting, thank you. Isn't it a good practice to avoid too hot ammunition with really old firearms? I also find it interesting to notice that the S&W 64's frame is stronger than the one of the model 10. Revolvers are a real pleasure to shoot.

[@LionquestFitness]

The modern Model 64 weighs a half ounce more than the Modern Model 10 - 36 ounces to 35.5 ounces. It has something to do with the difference between stainless steel and carbon steel. As far as too hot ammunition in old firearms, that was the message I was hoping to convey. Some say that ammo specs have been lowered and the revolvers of the 20th century were more than adequate to shoot with hot loads. Others say the metallurgy cannot handle it. Based on my research and experiences; I go with a more middle approach. Once you get into S&W revolvers made in the 60's, 70's and 80's you can use small amounts of Plus P without risk. Once you get into the nineties when they were reinforcing the guns specifically for Plus P, you can shoot at will.

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

Thank you for your answer. I'm sure that your caution make sense.

[@MOTO9]

Beautiful revolver SW

[@brianlee6849]

Excellent 👍 I definitely need to get a model 10. Thanks for your

[@LionquestFitness]

There's a reason Smith has made millions of them.

[@brianlee6849]

@@LionquestFitness Very true. Also the model 10 would not have been the standard issue for police departments for so many decades if it didn't get the job done. What was your first issue? Thanks 👍

[@77trashman]

I got a '75 10-5 with the pencil barrel.

[@brisnwinters8161]

A tyler t grip nice old school touch. Though I know it is now made under another name.

[@bobbyarnette1911]

Roll over rover ! Much❤ you are the best brother. And Southern! I got my eye on a md. 10 thanks to you! Lol

[@LionquestFitness]

Glad to help!

[@thewolfhunter]

Question: Can you put a 3" Model 36 barrel on a Model 10?

[@LionquestFitness]

I wouldn't think so.

[@theepicgamerultimate4831]

Hello Greg, I liked this video. What holster was you wearing with that model 10-6?

[@LionquestFitness]

It was an Azula holster for a four inch K or L frame S&W.

[@gunmonkey6545]

I have a Model 15 Combat Masterpiece and it is phenomenally accurate and I am never going to run +P ammo because why risk it? I can get a newer model if I feel the need to run that ammo for self defense but I am good with 38 Special. Interesting about the reinforcement explanation, thanks.

[@LionquestFitness]

It will save wear and tear on the gun for decades to come.

[@johnmadow5331]

I got a real old one in nice condition that fired .38Special in 4"and 6". The gun is very accurate and I only use 158 grains original lead Round Nose by Law Enforcement back in 1930-1978. My gun are both pencil and heavy barrel in original grips. The latest one I got was a Nickel plate with Law Enforcement Agency engraved on the grips frame.

[@LionquestFitness]

Those are great finds and great shooters!

[@pmaison]

I have a stainless steel Mod. 64 chambered in .38 cal. I believe it was made in 1990. Can I fire +P with it?

[@LionquestFitness]

Shouldn't be any problem.

[@frankbutta9344]

Plus P or not, that’s a beautiful revolver. Thanks for Sharing, Greg! 👍👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 P.S. I just bought a S&W Model 627 Pro Series, so I’m just skipping +P ammo with that, and going with .357 Magnum. I’m also learning to read lips, in case I ever shoot .357 without hearing protection. 😳😳😳😳

[@georgehorner1578]

Shot many through my 15,same K frame and it is tight as can be.

[@bloodOntheStep]

I contacted s&w on Facebook and asked them they said they didn’t recommend shooting +p through my 1977 model 36. When I asked why they said, “ We didn’t change our heat treat spec until 1985 to allow for the increased pressure of + p ammo.”

[@LionquestFitness]

Fascinating that you were given a straight answer by S&W. Ironically, we were shooting Plus P through guns of that vintage during the 80's, not knowing any better. Some will say that ammo pressures were ratcheted down during that period. I don't know. I do know the S&W revolvers were beefed up for a reason. I don't think running low end Plus P, say 945 fps would hurt a sixties through early eighties S&W if done in a limited way, but me personally, I wouldn't make it a habit.

[@bloodOntheStep]

@@LionquestFitness I didn’t think I would get a straight answer or even an answer back but they were very patient with me I explained to them that I was a new gun owner and am looking to get as much information as possible. I don’t want to bug them too much but I want to ask them if I upgraded the cylinder if it would be adequate to shoot +p? Anyways I’m taking the safe route I got hydra shock low recoil in mine until I can find the Hornady rounds I want

[@rayburns8019]

@@bloodOntheStep : Your internet handle probably intimidated them.

[@bloodOntheStep]

@@rayburns8019 maybe lol

[@1957tennis]

Has anyone actually seen a Model 10 or 15 damaged by plus p ammo?

[@MilsurpMikeChannel]

On those older revolvers, I don't like to try my luck because you never know what someone else has put through them. The only Model 10 derivative I have is my WWII era Victory. That late 70's Model 10 is beautiful.

[@LionquestFitness]

The nickeled revolver in the video was what is known as a "pre-victory" revolver. They were sent before America entered the war and were chambered in in .38 S&W. After the war they were re-chambered in .38 Special, had the barrels cut down and that one was nickel plated. But, one of the guns I've been keeping an eye out for, is an actual Victory model with the bare bones bluing, smooth grips and lanyard ring.

[@ratagris21]

@@LionquestFitness the Victory and pre Victory should not use anything over 130 gr rounds from what I read somewhere. This what they were designed to use especially during WW2.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@ratagris21 That is interesting. I had always assumed the 158 grain bullet was what they were designed to shoot.

[@ratagris21]

@@LionquestFitness the 158gr to my understanding developed was after WW2. Prior it was 130 gr. In .357 magnum 158 gr or 125 gr are the more common performance rounds including the +P. Many argue that +P is not needed as shot placement is key.

[@ratagris21]

@@LionquestFitness S&W .38 M&P Victory Revolver www.shootingtimes.com/editorial/sw-38-mp-victory-revolver/99462

[@-Wolfgang]

You convinced me to shoot standard velocity ammo out of my Model 10-9 2 inch revolver.

[@LionquestFitness]

A 10-9 made in 1988 will probably withstand Plus P, but it is a good idea for long term wear and tear to shoot standard ammo for practice and carry Plus P for self-defense.

[@ThePreparedNorseman]

Great looking revolver! I must admit I do not shoot the old groove sights all that well. Still would like one in the collection! Thanks for sharing!

[@ThePreparedNorseman]

The older ones do seem to have a smoother trigger to them.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@ThePreparedNorseman Well, even when I had young eyes, I'd put white out on the front sight to see it better. For me, the Isosceles grip works well with trench sights where I can triangulate the point of aim. With Weaver I do better with adjustable sights.

[@ThePreparedNorseman]

Lionquest Fitness I have only shot one revolver with sights like that, an old model 10 we got at the gun club. Might need to give it another go the next time I go!

[@steveww1507]

got the big brother to the mod-10 the new Mod -19 .Its a fine gun and shoots well . my next gun will be a mod -10

[@onedirection3510]

Nice video. What model did you show at 4:35? I don’t think you mentioned. The music was funny. It reminded me of Last of the Mohicans. I thought maybe you should’ve been shooting arrows lol. Nice backwards rollout. 👏

[@LionquestFitness]

It was a 1940 lend/lease sent to England for WW2. Originally it was chambered in . 38 Smith and Wesson, but was re-chambered for . 38 Special. It also had the barrel cut down to three inches, and was nickel plated.