fluted vs unfluted cylinder for revolver

[cobra1045]

Is there an advantage or benefit to having an unfluted cylinder on a revolver vs a fluted cylinder? Is the unfluted cylinder stronger for hot/heavy ammo loads? Any info is appreciated.

[GSwain]

Cosmetics and weight are the only real differences. The cylinder is only as strong as its weakest point, which will either be the point between cylinders, or the point between cylinder and outside surface. (wherever the metal is thinnest)

[kmca]

Unfluted is easier to clean

[21SF]

Pretty much what those dude said^^^^

Mostly cosmetics, some strength (slight), I went with a .44 mag vs 454 casuall just because the .44 has flutes and i liked the look.

[Echidin]

It adds a little extra weight that comes in useful for your shorter barreled magnum revolvers.

[not-fishing]

It adds a little extra weight that comes in useful for your shorter barreled magnum revolvers.

My old (shouldn't have sold) 4" S&W 629 with an unfluted cylinder felt better shooting magnums than my present 6 1/2" fluted model 29.

[9mmepiphany]

If you shoot quickly an unfluted cylinder puts more strain on the action

[shooting4life]

If you shoot quickly an unfluted cylinder puts more strain on the action

Correct. Also a flutter cylinder can give you a slightly better trigger pull if you were to send it off for a competition action job.

[Revoman]

I'm a sucker for the non-fluted cylinder. I like the clean look and it really is easier to clean.

It's my understanding that the flutes were 'added' to lighten the carry load. I remember seeing pictures of the older guns without the flutes when they were first introduced.

While they may be a little tougher on the action when firing double action, I don't believe that it's of any great significance.

Here's one....