Pinned and Recessed- Smith and Wesson Revolvers

Smith and Wesson revolvers manufactured before 1982 in magnum calibers and 22lr will generally have pinned barrels and recessed chambers. They started recessing the chambers in 1935 with the development of the registered magnum (357 magnum). It was meant to fully enclose the cartridge in the chamber to prevent harm from faulty brass in the magnum cartridges. In 22lr, since the primer is in the rim of the cartridge this was also done as a safety measure. Both were discontinued in 1982 to speed manufacturing and decrease production costs in magnum cartridges but 22lr revolvers still have recessed chambers to this day. Most collectors still value the pinned and recessed guns as true American manufacturing works of art. Thanks for Watching.