Are the Flat-tops stronger...?

[xs56gun]

Hello again.

I've been working up some projects, but needed some clarification on whether the Flat top frames were stronger than the standard .
It's hard to tell from the pictures, and I don't have one to compare to.

Thanks.
-Kevin

[carl]

No real differences in strength when considering the Ruger products. NOW, one caveat cannot be overlooked and that is the SIZE of the cylinder frames. Ruger's made these cylinder frames in the "medium" size and the "large" size and one must carefully consider what cartridges are used in chosen cylinder frame size.

JMHO,

Carl

[xs56gun]

Thanks for the info, I was reading up on that.
So are the 44 Mags full size? Like the Anniversary Models...?

I don't want to get stuck with a Mid-frame, I need the full size for the most versatility.
And I just don't particularly like the look of the mids...
But if there is little to no difference, I might just use regular frames for simplicity sake, and as I want to create many different caliber combinations.

-Kevin

[carl]

The .357 magnum Anniversary Model is made on the "mid sized" cylinder frame. The .44 magnum Anniversary Model is made on the "large sized" cylinder frame.

These differences are obvious to see after you get some experience "under your hat".

Carl

[scorchedearth]

Steel being what it is, the thicker it gets the stronger it is. It would make sense that the flattop frame would be stronger than the fixed sight version.
Not to play word games, but a stronger frame does not necessarily mean it can digest more pressure. The vast majority of cylinders go kaboom at the bolt notch, and the top strap has no effect on that at all.
What it most likely will do is resist torsional and stretching forces to a greater degree-on top of looking great.

[xs56gun]

The most pressure I'd like to go for is 45Win Mag using an oversized 6 round cryotreated 17-4 cylinder.

Blows out the bolt notch, huh...?
So what you're saying is I need to build a longer, more shallow notch and bolt...

I saw on Bowen's site (I believe it was...) that he installs a bolt-support block inside the frame.
I take it that is to reduce torsional forces at the bolt...?

[scorchedearth]

The strength of any gun is limited to its weakest attribute. Bolt notches are typically where the steel is the thinnest-and thus the weakest. Some guns, esp. our beloved SAAs have bolt notches cut where the steel is already pretty thin-thus limiting pressures. Others place the bolt cuts in more meatier areas, which translates to greater strength.
Mr. Bowen is a great gunsmith, and I would not suppose to second guess him,so I would think that his solution is both to allow higher operating pressures and to extend longevity.
I have to say, the value of the 45 WM is less than what you can achieve with good handloads generating less pressure in the .45 Colt. IMHO if you still need more, go to the 454 Casull.

[jiminyt]

My understanding is that the bolt support block is for accuracy. It reduces side-to-side play, allows for tighter lock-up. It is particularly useful for line-bored cylinders.

Here's a picture from Clements site.

Scroll down to "Cylinder latch support block installed in receiver"

www.clementscustomguns.com/howitsmade.html

[Lee Martin]

Forget the 45 Win Mag. It's been done before and offers nothing over 30,000 PSI Colts. You can push pressure higher, but not safely in a 6-shot (same holds for the Colt).

The other problem with the Win Mag is roll crimping with heavy bullets (the round headspaces off the case mouth).

I have a 45 Colt / 45 Win Mag Seville and other than being a oddity, the Win Mag doesn't add a thing.



-Lee
www.singleactions.com

[albundy]

Glad this was answered because I had the same thoughts. I missed a Flat top anniversary 44 on Gunbroker, still looking