Anyone ever convert a Model 39 into a 38 Super?

I am curious if anyone has ever thought about turning a S&W 39 into a 38 Super. I know the barrel twist is 1:18.75. Wolfe makes extra strength recoil springs and the magazine will easily hold a bullet with a case length of 1.120". The barrel has an interesting lock up but I think it could be worked with and the bushing could be tightened. I am playing with the idea of shooting it in a steel match. If that doesn't work then I will have really beefed up a CC pistol.

Len

Len,

Chapter 26 in George C. Nonte , Jr's book "Pistolsmithing is devoted to converting a S&W Model 39 to 38 Super.






Not the best scan but somewhat readable.


Virgil

I might add that I had once though of doing this conversion on a S&W Model 59 but decided that I really wasn't gaining much seeing as how this conversion could only use light bullets in the 90-100 grain category. That and my 59 wasn't the most accurate pistol in the world. This was my issue gun we had to buy from the department I was with and  to tell the truth anything that was more that 30 feet from me I would have been more accurate throwing the gun instead of shooting.

Virgil

Thanks Virgil,

  I have been yakking with my local pistol smith since you posted the first response. He can get the reamer. I just need to find a suitable barrel to have it done with. I would want to keep the original as a 9mm. My 39 (439) is pretty accurate as is so wouldn't want to end up with something that wasn't. He had the book you mentioned just needed pointed in the right direction.

Len

Your might work better. Mine was the original Model 39. IL State Police went to it and lots of other LE Agency's in IL followed suit with that and the M-59. The original aluminum frame 39/59 were a pleasure to carry but kind of lacking in the accuracy department.

Good luck with your venture. Let us know if you do it and how it works out.


Virgil

Will do. Found some new barrels in stock. I have to wait till Monday to find out what twist they are.

Len