New S&W Model S&W

Does anyone here know if S&W uses the EDM process to rifle barrels for current production Model 27 revolvers?

Greetings,

Several years ago I tried to buy a new 625 45 ACP barrel. They sent me an EDM barrel.

You can call S&W and they will let you know.

I Random Rested two Model 586 pistols, both had EDM barrels, at 50 yards. With good wadcutter ammo, they both shot ten ring.

Personally, I prefer the old style broached barrels.

Cheers,

Dave

When I purchased my new 625 last year, S&W used both process.  The regular version used EDM, the Performance Center version had broached rifling. I purchased the PC version for that reason. At the time I confirmed this by calling S&W.  Took some time to find someone at S&W who understood my questions.

(Can you explain the difference here, maybe sometime when you have free time?)

Mike, google is easier.  This discusses EDM as well towards the end.

https://www.thehighroad.org/index.php?threads/barrels-which-is-better.370011/

Perhaps Dave, or someone with similar expertise will chime in.

EDM is Electrical Discharge Machining.  It gives very fine control.  In my experience EDM rifling is not smooth like cut or broached rifling, and doesn't shoot cast bullets well.  Leading with EDM barrels is often bad, but accuracy with jacketed bullets is usually very good.

Boxturtle wrote:EDM is Electrical Discharge Machining.  It gives very fine control.  In my experience EDM rifling is not smooth like cut or broached rifling, and doesn't shoot cast bullets well.  Leading with EDM barrels is often bad, but accuracy with jacketed bullets is usually very good.

Not that I have any interest in trying, but is that something that could be improved on by lapping the bore?

Quite possibly, but lapping the barrel rounds the edges of the lands and (in my opinion) reduces the useful life of the barrel.  There is a difference between putting a polishing touch on an already excellent barrel like a top-notch rifle barrel, and repairing the rifling in a sub-par barrel that was cut with a process that isn't smooth.  It's the old silk purse from a sow's ear conundrum.