Smith and Wesson Revolver Frame Sizes – J, K L, N?

[gunnie12]

On their website they group “K” and “L” frames termed “medium.” Are “K” frames smaller than “L” frames? For example, a 686 revolver is an “L” frame.

Does anybody know the SW “K” frame models? Are the model 64 and 67 .38 spl. “K” frame revolvers?

[Chesster]

Indeed they are. I think the grouping may be due to the K and L having the same grip frame and use the same grips/stocks.

[Madirishman]

Maybe this will lend some insight.

[Mosin44az]

Off the top of my head, K frames include Models 13, 19, 64, 65 and 66. Smith has recently replaced the K-frame .357s (65 and 66) with new, beefier models, I think the 620 is one of these. Don't know if the new ones are considered K-frames, or are actually L-frames like the 686.

[ATW525]

Off the top of my head, K frames include Models 13, 19, 64, 65 and 66. Smith has recently replaced the K-frame .357s (65 and 66) with new, beefier models, I think the 620 is one of these. Don't know if the new ones are considered K-frames, or are actually L-frames like the 686.

The 620 and 619 are indeed L frames.

[carguychris]

Are the model 64 and 67 .38 spl. “K” frame revolvers?

Yes. The blued versions are the Models 10 and 15 respectively, but S&W discontinued the 15 a few years ago.

Smith has recently replaced the K-frame .357s (65 and 66) with new, beefier models... Don't know if the new ones are considered K-frames, or are actually L-frames like the 686.

S&W has discontinued all of their K-frame .357s. The 619, 620, 686, and 686+ are L-frames.

[Cowart]

Are “K” frames smaller than “L” frames?

Yes and no... An "L" frame is a sort of hybrid, combining the grip portion of a "K" frame with the more robust cylinder/barrel/topstrap area of an "N" frame.