Gas Cutting of Top Strap

[odoh]

As I was getting ready to send my 454 in to have it looked at for possible cylinder to barrel rub, I seen a fine line etched in the top strap adjacent to the the cylinder gap. Got a probe and sure enuff, there is some dept to it. I sorta expect something like that by-n-by but really didn't expect it so soon. I've less than 50 rnds thru it and looking at my other 454, a SBH, which has no evidence of erosion yet. I've never noticed the erosion issue on other revolvers before, not that I went looking and really don't know what is/isn't just fair wear/tear nor have a method to quantify. I'm just wondering what others have experienced. Could it be that the Rugers larger gap mitigates erosion better?

[paul105]

The first picture is of the top strap of my FA .475 Linebaugh.   The gun had around 10,000 rounds thru it when I took the picture.  Most of the rounds fired in the 475 were 400gr at 1,100 fps, so the pressure was probably slightly above .44 Mag levels (i.e. not in the .454 range).  I think the "line" you see in the top strap is a machine mark and not due to "gas cutting".

The second picture is the top strap of a S&W Model 329 PD (Scandium/Titanium .44 Mag).  The shinny metal insert is a gas shield that supposedly ruduces/prevents top strap erosion/gas cutting.   Picture taken after 1,900 rounds of .44 Mag Level loads

The third picture is of that same S&W 329 PD after the gas shield eroded in half and fell off -- the metal under the gas shield.  S&W replaced the frame on this gun under warranty.  This happened after 2,780 rounds of .44 Mag level loads.
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Paul

[odoh]

Hmm, its very very similar and same location and deep enuff to snag a scribe when probed. I've asked them to look into it while there. Those last two pixs really look nasty 

Paul, that was quick  This internet is great but only as great as those such as yourself ~ Thanks  

[odoh]

Just heard from Bob at the factory and as Paul at indicated, it was only a machine mark left behind from broaching operation during manufacture.

Today's discussion reminded me that there are still a few enterprises around that have excellent customer relations still.

[paul105]

Freedom Arms customer service is second to none.

Paul

[WolfTrap]

ODOH,
Sir, I've seen some flame cuts in Rugers a ton of years back with their 357 Max that bares the same flame cuts your high pressure 454 loads doing to the top strap.
If one looks closely.....typical of lousy metal (Heat treating) prep and poor workmanship!
I would send it back, demand they replace frame (Firearm) and stop making lame excuses about "Broaching"!!
WT
Yes, I own FA's in both 44/454 without lame "Broach" damage!

 

[stevejr454]

Well WolfTrap, this is probably the first of many replies to your recent post.
I have owned over twenty different Freedom Arms revolvers in various calibers over the years, and most of them did have braoching marks. Yes some of them were purchased second hand, and some were factory purchased. I think it has a lot to do with the individuals finishing the revolver, as they are all hand finished.

stevejr454

[WolfTrap]

Well WolfTrap, this is probably the first of many replies to your recent post.
I have owned over twenty different Freedom Arms revolvers in various calibers over the years, and most of them did have braoching marks. Yes some of them were purchased second hand, and some were factory purchased. I think it has a lot to do with the individuals finishing the revolver, as they are all hand finished.

stevejr454

Over 20 FA's (Freedom Arms)........hmmmm?
Rather than being a "Flamer" causing "Fanboy" anger....I'll step back and give way.
There's world of GBO topics that believe it or not...just too much fun and educational to get hung upped on  one!
On to more fun,
WolfTrap
PS:Never....Never comment to a post after having a great stem glass of "Pinot Grigio" in which 20yr. old arguments and dissatisfaction come into play! Makes one having to clear the "Horse-tail" to better view the world!

[Hank08]

I have 4.  My .454 is about 18 yrs. old, been shot a lot with no sign of gas cutting yet.  The 353 has had some real hi pressure loads and no sign there either.  I've seen some old S%W N frame .357s that were cut about 1/2 way thru and they still shot as good as ever.  I believe the larger the gap the more it's going to cut.
H08

[SHOOTALL]

Would any revolver not have a mark there ? In effect every time you fire the gun you create a blow torch effect comming out between the bbl and cyl .
All the guns i have owned and shot have the cut there , some more than others . Some powders are more abrasive when fired than others and can cause the damage faster that others .